Benefits of nostalgia in vulnerable populations

The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered and exacerbated psychological distress, and exposed psychological vulnerabilities, in large swathes of the population. Under challenging circumstances, nostalgia may convey tangible psychological and physical health benefits. We review recent evidence for nostalgia's utility in vulnerable populations, including sojourners and immigrants, civil war refugees, people suffering bereavement, people facing a limited time horizon, and people living with dementia. Having raised the prospect of a positive role for nostalgia in responding to adversity, we next present findings from a series of randomised nostalgia interventions and their impact over time in the workplace, during the COVID-19 pandemic, and at university, respectively. We conclude by offering evidence-based recommendations for future interventions, highlighting the importance of optimal person-activity fit, diversity of content, and accessibility of delivery mechanisms.

Automated summary

The COVID-19 pandemic has had negative effects on mental health, but nostalgia can help in responding to adversity and bring positive benefits. This study reviews the utility of nostalgia in vulnerable populations such as sojourners, immigrants, civil war refugees, bereaved individuals, individuals facing limited time horizons, and those living with dementia. The study also presents findings from randomized nostalgia interventions in the workplace, during the COVID-19 pandemic, and at university, highlighting the impacts over time. Evidence-based recommendations for future interventions are provided, emphasizing the importance of optimal person-activity fit, diversity of content, and accessibility of delivery mechanisms.