How Can We Promote Meaning in Life in Older Adults? A Systematic Review and Narrative Synthesis of Interventions

We aim to synthesize interventions for older adults that report positive effects on meaning in life (MiL).

This systematic review, conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, synthesized findings from 22 studies examining interventions targeting MiL in adults aged 60 years and older. Study quality was appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) tools.

Most studies used heterogeneous, quasi-experimental designs and assessed MiL as a secondary outcome; interventions commonly relied on life review, narrative, and dialogical approaches, often delivered in group formats, with outcomes shaped by cultural context, health status, and the therapeutic relationship.

Overall, the strength of evidence was moderate and limited by study design and variability in outcome definitions. Future research should prioritize more precise conceptualization of MiL, improved methodological rigor, and culturally sensitive approaches to enhance the applicability of findings across diverse older adult populations.

The findings indicate that clinical interventions may engage MiL across multiple dimensions, that their impact varies by individual and contextual factors in older adults, and that validated MiL measures should be used to assess change.