Memory-making interventions for children with life-threatening or life-limiting conditions and their families: A systematic review of evidence and implications for practice.

BACKGROUND

Emotional and psychosocial support is vital for children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions and their families. Memory-making interventions, which create lasting memories, are gaining recognition, yet a comprehensive synthesis of their efficacy and scope is lacking.

AIM

To systematically review and synthesize evidence on memory-making interventions for children and young people aged 0-19 years with life-threatening or life-limiting conditions and their families in paediatric palliative and bereavement contexts.

DESIGN

A systematic review conducted in accordance with Joanna Briggs Institute guidance for mixed-methods reviews and reported using PRISMA guidelines. Narrative synthesis was used to identify key themes related to the effectiveness, implementation and family experiences of these interventions.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Scopus.

RESULTS

Eleven articles met the inclusion criteria, identifying three categories of memory-making interventions: storytelling-based, art-based legacy and physical keepsake creations. While statistical significance was limited, studies suggested small to moderate psychosocial benefits. Narrative synthesis identified four key themes: emotional expression and comfort; family connection and communication; memory preservation and personalization; and grieving support and continued bonds. Digital storytelling was the most common intervention. Families emphasized the need for personalized and culturally sensitive approaches to improve engagement and relevance.

CONCLUSIONS

Memory-making interventions provide valuable emotional and psychosocial benefits for children and young people and their families in paediatric palliative and bereavement contexts. Tailored, well-supported interventions can strengthen resilience and well-being. Addressing challenges like technological barriers and cultural sensitivities may optimize these interventions and improve care quality.