Group therapy
For some patients group support, often in the setting of a day hospital,
is a good means of meeting and working through problems including
dependency needs. It is often less intense than one to one therapy, and
less likely to lead to regression. Groups can help some older people with
social functioning, especially those who have been isolated. Some special
difficulties with group therapy in the elderly include deafness and
somnolence. Avoiding meeting after heavy meals; using comfortable but
supportive chairs; a well ventilated room; and a minimum of extraneous
noise, help to keep everyone awake and able to hear. Meetings should
not run for longer than half an hour.
Dobson & Culhane (1991) describe a therapeutic group run for older
women. They emphasise the importance of having a clear purpose for a
group and considering selection criteria carefully. In the early stages,
rules such as not talking while others do, and valuing others’ contributions,
helped to harness good intentions. Finances, losses and reminiscences
were powerful themes. The group ended after plenty of notice had been
given, and a photograph taken on the penultimate session. The leader’s
responsibilities are defined in Box 17.3.