Institutionalized elderly. Relaxation, locus of control, self-esteem

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Psychology
• Health Sciences

Background:

• Aging is often associated with decreased self-esteem and external locus of control.
• Interventions are needed to enhance psychological well-being in older adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of progressive relaxation on locus of control and self-esteem in elders.
• To compare the efficacy of progressive relaxation with an activity program.

Main Methods:

• Elders participated in progressive relaxation or activity programs.
• Locus of control and self-esteem were measured before and after interventions.

Main Results:

• Progressive relaxation significantly increased internal locus of control perception.
• Both interventions increased self-esteem, with progressive relaxation showing greater effect.
• Changes in locus of control and self-esteem were not correlated.

Conclusions:

• Progressive relaxation is an effective intervention for improving locus of control and self-esteem in older adults.
• It offers a distinct advantage over general activity programs for enhancing self-esteem.