The use of life review to enhance quality of life of people living with AIDS: A feasibility study

People living with AIDS (PLWA) are confronted with uncertainty and their ow n mortality at an earlier than expected age. Life review, an intervention t hat has the potential to increase life satisfaction in the elderly experien cing transition points in their lives, may have a similar effect when used with PLWA. Therefore, the purpose of this feasibility study was to explore the use of life review in a sample of 20 PLWA through a randomized controll ed trial of its effectiveness in decreasing depressive symptoms and in incr easing self esteem, quality of life, and purpose in life. Compared to the c ontrol group, the treatment group had an improved overall quality of life a nd self-esteem over 12 months, less depressive symptoms over 12 months, and a greater purpose in life at 3 months. The effects that were seen were mai nly small to medium effects. The findings from this feasibility study sugge st the potential value of life review to enhance quality of life, purpose i n life, and self-esteem, and to decrease depressive symptoms in PLWA. Furth er research is needed with a larger sample and with other groups such as PL WA experiencing virologic failure.