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IMPROAGING: A multicomponent intervention to achieve healthy aging through improvisation theatre
Irene Criado Martín1, Chenhui Chenhuichen2, Marina Sánchez-Latorre1
1Geriatrics Department, Hospital Universitario Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.
Revista Espanola De Geriatria Y Gerontologia
|June 25, 2026
Summary
Improvisational theatre significantly improved physical function, cognitive abilities, and emotional well-being in older adults. This activity offers a holistic approach to healthy aging, enhancing quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Creative Arts Therapies
Background:
- Improvisational theatre integrates physical activity, cognitive engagement, social interaction, and emotional expression.
- These elements align with recommendations for promoting healthy aging in older adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of improvisational theatre on the physical and cognitive functions of older adults.
- To assess improvements in quality of life and emotional well-being through improvisational theatre interventions.
Main Methods:
- A quasi-experimental design was employed with five groups, including residents of care facilities and community-dwelling seniors.
- A convenience sample of 56 participants (mean age 76.6 years, 73% female) was recruited.
Main Results:
- Statistically significant improvements were observed in physical function measures (SPPB, hand-grip strength, FRAIL index) and cognitive tasks (MoC@ scale, verbal and semantic fluency).
- Participants reported enhanced quality of life (EuroQol) and reduced loneliness and depression.
- Sensitivity analyses suggested context-dependent effects for certain variables.
Conclusions:
- Improvisational theatre interventions demonstrably enhance the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional well-being of older adults.
- Integrating improvisational theatre into broader aging support strategies can effectively address the multifaceted challenges of an aging population.
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