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 Especially since, after the COVID-19 pandemic, many elderly people have withdrawn from various activities.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
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.