Group Psychodrama for Dementia, Old Age, and Loneliness offers a fresh approach for professionals working with older individuals by employing new and exciting custom methodologies in psychodrama, particularly for clients with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia.

This book offers a general explanation of the use of psychodrama by giving an overview of the therapeutic use of drama in all its forms, clearly explaining the concepts and methods, and describing the rationale of every intervention while also following a group over six years with precious documentation of the group process. It addresses the main concerns of those who suffer from dementia - adjusting to a new and changing level of functioning, fostering a sense of belonging, preserving their innate dignity, and redefining relationships and roles.

This practical guide will help therapists, social workers, family and other caregivers, teachers, and medical professionals working with older clients seeking comfort from the loneliness of old age and dementia using group psychodrama.

About the Author

Tzippi Cedar, M.A.E., is a psychodramatist who deals with loss, loneliness, growth and self-efficacy. She teaches and works with therapists, social, geriatric and medical staff, teachers, parents, singles, children, adolescents and Holocaust survivors.

Reviews

"Cedar's book humanizes the work with older adults beyond imagination. It not only inspired and encouraged me to do creative work with every living being, but I also found myself laughing and crying while reading it, as if I was watching a movie or a theatre piece. The book is written with enthusiasm and clarity: It describes the challenges and achievements of doing creative group work with people suffering from dementia, old age, and loneliness with utmost sincerity, enlightening depth, and a passionate desire to touch the reader's heart."

Professor Susana Pendzik, PhD, RDT, Tel Hai Academic College, Hebrew University of Jerusalem

"In the field of dementia care we're always looking for additional ways to stimulate our groups. Once upon a time there was only music therapy and exercises. This book is fascinating, an easy read but also scientific, well versed in theoretical data and examples from life, while encouraging a new generation to get on the wagon and join in doing psychodrama. It not only adds a whole new field to our toolbox, but in line with the Melabev philosophy, accents what they can do, not what is lost; relates to them with dignity and uses the interaction within the group to build a safe, loving, support system."

Leah Abramowitz, M.S.W., co-founder of Melabev, recipient of the Jerusalem Prize and the Builders of Zion Prize

"This inspiring book authored by a true expert shows convincingly how a group of older adults suffering cognitive decline, Alzheimers disease and other dementias responded individually and in group settings to a series of exercises clearly described in each chapter. It is amazing to find out how seniors with various cognitive impairments responded to a wide range of psychodrama techniques wonderfully explained in the book."

Soledad Ballesteros, Ph.D., emeritus professor of Basic Psychology, Universidad Nacional de Educacion a Distancia, Madrid

Book Information
ISBN 9781032343587
Author Tzippi Cedar
Format Paperback
Page Count 224
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 280g