OVERCOMING ANXIETY MANIFESTATIONS IN OLDER ADULTS USING SYMBOLDRAMA METHODS

Abstract

The article presents the results of a theoretical and empirical study of anxiety reduction in older adults using the methods of symboldrama. Particular attention is paid to age-related features of anxiety and its main contributing factors. The key determinants of anxiety in later life include severe illness or the death of close relatives, the acute onset or exacerbation of one’s own somatic diseases, interpersonal conflicts within the family, and feelings of social exclusion and loneliness. The influence of the psycho-emotional state on the well-being and behavior of older adults is also emphasized. Levels of situational and trait anxiety in a group of elderly participants were empirically assessed.

The study analyzes the main approaches of symboldrama as a psychotherapeutic method that has proven highly effective in the short-term treatment of neuroses and in psychotherapy for disorders associated with neurotic and anxiety-related conditions. A psychocorrectional program based on symboldrama techniques was developed to reduce anxiety levels and optimize the emotional sphere of older adults. The effectiveness of these methods in alleviating anxiety manifestations in elderly individuals was empirically confirmed. Comparative analysis of situational and trait anxiety indicators obtained during the follow-up assessment demonstrated a significant reduction in both forms of anxiety, confirming the effectiveness of the implemented psychocorrectional program using symboldrama techniques.

The practical significance of the findings lies in the development and implementation of targeted interventions aimed at overcoming anxiety manifestations in older adults.