ABSTRACT
Understandably, the reality of forming and building a fully functioning experiential group process with senior citizens who are dealing with serious limitations requires major adjustments. The individual idiosyncrasies, the deterioration in functioning and the natural dynamics of this age group must be handled gently, wisely and with humor and flexibility. Dementia demands facilitating a safe, protective and enabling environment. This part describes the challenges, limitations and adaptations to the issues that arise. There are times when a group leader has to cope with unpleasant situations where a group member is no longer able or fit to remain in this group. Dealing with the loss of a participant through death is also presented.
The author then summarizes important information and points of view garnered from her psychodrama workshops with geriatric social workers. They deal with this population on a daily, realistic, and practical basis and they provide valuable access to what is facing anyone dealing with the elderly. Deep awareness and empathy evolve through psychodramatic exercises which are described, like sculpting a senior citizen and role reversing with the people they work with.
