Psychodrama: a therapeutic modality for the elderly in nursing homes

The elderly in nursing homes are subject to increased incidents of psychiatric disorders and are particularly vulnerable to depression. However, mental health services are rarely provided for these individuals. The authors conducted a psychodrama group with elderly psychiatric patients in a nursing home and found it to be an effective treatment modality. It proved especially useful in the alleviation of depression by allowing members to "relive" and grieve for unresolved losses and express repressed feelings of anger, abandonment, and fear. The psychodrama techniques also encouraged spontaneity and creativity and facilitated the life review process. The latter encouraged members to resolve old problems and to examine and restructure their identities. Case illustrations are presented and additional benefits of the group are discussed.