disengagement theory in reminiscence is used by some therapists and researchers and focuses on the patient withdrawing from social responsibilities. this movement away from social life is encouraged so that the patient (in many cases an elderly person) can brace themselves for the rapid changes associated with the end of life. in withdrawing from interaction with others, disengagement theory aims to prepare the person for the most powerful and taxing separation of death. the hope in using this therapy is that when death comes, it will not be as painful or upsetting an experience as typically thought. the notion can be a comforting one that instead of being fearful patients that participate in the disengagement aspect of reminiscence theory will no longer be afraid but empowered when meeting their end.