Effectiveness of relaxation therapy on psychological variables among the elderly in old-age homes - A pilot study

Abstract

Background: Aging is an inevitable developmental phenomenon even with best nutrition and health care. Consequently, changes occur in the physical, psychological, hormonal, and social realms besides others. The mental disorders frequently encountered in the Indian elderly include dementia, mood disorders, and more frequently depression in its varying forms. Mental health problems are underidentified by health-care professionals and older people themselves. Increasing burden of the Geriatric Mental Health is engulfing India as a Silent Epidemic. Psychological well-being has been examined as an indicator of successful adaptation during old age. Aims and Objective: The objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of relaxation therapy on psychological variables among the elderly in old-age homes. Materials and Methods: This study embarks on the effect of relaxation therapy on the psychological problems of the elderly in old-age homes. Twenty elderly in the age group of 60–80 of both genders were included in the study after voluntary informed consent. Relaxation therapy (Jacobson’s progressive muscle relaxation with music, physical exercise, and laughter therapy) was given for an hour each in the morning and evening for 4 months successively. Results: Psychological problem assessment questionnaire scores were significant in post-test I and post-test II (P < 0.004 and P < 0.001). DASS21 scores were statistically significant (P < 0.001) indicating that depression anxiety and stress were reduced both in males and females as well. Conclusion: From the findings of the study, it is evident that alternative therapies are greatly useful in geriatric care and it could be recommended for the psychological health and well-being of the elderly.