ABSTRACT
This first section is a “trailer” for using group psychodrama to cope with the loneliness of dementia and old age. The reader gets a taste of what can happen when we bring a group to action through guided imagery, using the metaphor of a forest. Through transporting people suffering from dementia, old age and loneliness into a make-believe world that offers a safe aesthetic distance from their frustrations, limitations and disabilities we witness the spontaneity, imagination and ease of participation of all the group members.
The second section is an invitation to join a journey. First, the author introduces herself with essential background and intentions. The members of the group are introduced so that we can see the dynamic diversity of the participants and their limitations. This leads to the presentation of the author’s personal and therapeutic goals for people suffering from all forms of dementia, old age and loneliness. These goals are based on the experience of working with a group of people who were struggling with the greatest loss of all: their memories, cognition, physical and cognitive function, and their dignity.
This introductory section gives a basic definition of psychodrama. It refers to the need for action – doing – spontaneity and creativity, in order to release the inner world, imprisoned in our participants, and free them from restraints through psychodrama techniques.
