ALTRUISM AND CREATIVE EXPRESSION IN A LONG-TERM OLDER ADULT PSYCHOTHERAPY GROUP

Abstract

This article describes the use of altruism and creative expression in an older adult psychotherapy group. These interventions, for which theoretic rationale and clinical examples are provided, are designed to decrease feelings of powerlessness that accompany life changes; to facilitate insight into feelings, coping, and preventative strategies for adaptation to change and loss; and to combat stereotypes, false beliefs, and myths imposed by a youth-oriented society. An integrated therapeutic model, combining psychodynamic, supportive, and cognitive/behavioral approaches, was used in the design of this group intervention for older adults. The authors, using rich clinical examples coupled with discussion of related theoretic background, provide the psychotherapist with an interesting perspective on this unique use of group psychotherapy with older adults. Such groups can provide a context within which to offer these patients the hope of relatedness, the opportunity to gain independence, and a heightened sense of integrity and possibility in one's later years.