reminiscence serves different psychological functions, including the taxonomy presented by webster. webster's reminiscence functions scale (rfs) includes eight reasons why people reminisce: boredom reduction, bitterness revival, prepare for death, conversation, identity, intimacy maintenance, problem solving, and teach/inform. psychologists have looked at using reminiscence therapeutically to improve affect and coping skills, although the effectiveness of this therapy has been debated. from more recent data, as outlined below, the therapy appears to have positive and even lasting results within the elderly community.