[Autogenic training in geriatric psychiatry patients]

Autogenic training (a.t.) as an additional therapeutic method was applied to 20 psychogeriatric inpatients in daily exercises. The patients were suffering from major depression, dementia, psychoneurotic disorders and Parkinson's disease. By using only the basic exercises, supported by some learning helps, 14 out of the 20 patients were able to learn and practice a.t. with quite good success, especially in the treatment of sleep disorders and restless states. Involving the nursal staff proved to be of great importance. Finally special aspects of the application of a.t. in psychogeriatric inpatients are discussed.