Theatrical techniques used in the activation of seniors

"<< Background >>The years 2020-21 were marked by the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Social isolation affected citizens, and above all, seniors, who were the highest-risk group. Many seniors withdrew from social and family life, which exposed them to the development of depression and psychosomatic illnesses. Fear of illness could turn into fear of other people. Seniors rarely seek psychotherapeutic help, which is considered shameful by this generation. Therefore, we decided to use psychodrama methods to conduct workshops that would allow seniors to work on their fears in a friendly environment. Drama help to open up to the surrounding reality and discover their own abilities.An additional value of the project was the participation of seniors in international workshops, which provided an interesting and attractive educational offer.The project responded urgent social needs such as combating social isolation, increasing health competences, and the need for activation of seniors. Evaluation showed that the implementation of the project brought tangible benefits, improving the quality of life of the participants.<< Objectives >>The main goal of the project was to support the social integration of people aged 60+. Specific objectives included:- Reducing social isolation and improving the overall well-being of seniors.- Using psychodrama methods to work on fears and psychological barriers in a friendly environment.- Providing seniors with the opportunity to participate in international workshops, enriching them educationally and socially.These objectives were directly related to the priorities of supporting social inclusion and promoting lifelong learning, especially in the context of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly impacted their social interactions and mental health.In preparing the educational offer for seniors, we carefully listen to the needs of our students and strive to adapt it to their requirements. We seek tools, methodologies, and techniques that would allow to prepare new, interesting training offers. The use of theatrical techniques in adult education is precisely such a new area that we proposed to our listeners. Especially since, after the COVID-19 pandemic, many elderly people have withdrawn from various activities. Proposing something completely new, allowed these individuals to return to their former balance<< Implementation >>The ""Aktywni XXI"" Foundation conducted local activities with seniors from the Jeleniogórska Academy of the Third Age, leading theater workshops focused on developing social skills. The sessions were conducted by the Foundation's trainers and invited actors. They included voice work, stage presentation, and text interpretation.The SIGMA-ART Foundation collaborated with institutions in Bucharest, Brașov, and Vrancea, engaging seniors in the TUS project. Activities included theater education, improvisational exercises, development of acting skills, and integration with the environment. Seniors participated in activities aimed at fostering self-analysis, collaboration, creativity, and performance presentations, where they energized their acting abilities.The project also included International Theater Workshops conducted by partners. In Bucharest, the workshops were held in a prison, where theater techniques were used for rehabilitation purposes. In Jelenia Góra, the workshops were conducted by actors at the Jeleniogórski Theater and focused mainly on body language and communication skills through verbal and non-verbal techniques.<< Results >>1. Social Inclusion: Through participation in theater workshops and psychodrama, seniors felt more integrated into the local community. Their activity and engagement in social life increased.2. Improvement of Social Skills: Participants developed their communication, empathy, and assertiveness skills, enabling them to function better in everyday interpersonal relationships.3. Increased Interest in Education: The opportunity to participate in international workshops and innovative forms of education (such as drama in education) sparked interest and encouraged new seniors, who had not previously participated in any educational activities, to join the project.4. New Acquaintances and Relationships: The project enabled seniors to make new contacts both locally and internationally, contributing to the building of new social relationships.5. Continuation of Activities After the Project: The experiences and skills gained will be continued and developed after the project ends. The participating organizations have developed better tools and methods for working with seniors, which will allow for further support of their activation and development."