Exploring the Benefits of Drama Therapy for Emotional Well-being and Social Connection in Older Adults

with Kirsten Ajax,

Graduate Research Assistant, Kansas State University

This week on the Art of Aging, host Michael Hughes welcomes Kirsten Ajax,a drama therapist and Graduate Research Assistant at Kansas State University. During the episode, Mike and Kirsten discuss the field of drama therapy and its transformative impact on older adults. She discusses the benefits of drama therapy in fostering emotional expression, social connection, and personal growth among seniors. Kirsten highlights the importance of community building and creativity in therapy, and shares inspiring stories, including one about a resilient woman involved in the civil rights movement as one of the freedom writers. The episode underscores the potential of drama therapy to enhance the emotional well-being and quality of life for older adults, and so much more.
Play Video

Notes:

Highlights from this week’s conversation include:

  • Kirsten’s Background and Passion for Drama Therapy (0:07)
  • Drama Therapy: Definition and History (8:28)
  • Community Building and Emotional Regulation (10:27)
  • Exercises for Rebuilding Community (15:29)
  • Creative Energy and Therapeutic Benefits (20:15)
  • The Importance of Creativity (22:43)
  • Individualized Trauma Therapy (25:17)
  • Retraining and Building Resilience (27:28)
  • Self-Forgiveness and Self-Awareness (30:17)
  • Restoring Identity in Older Adults (33:19)
  • Therapy for Caregiver-Care Recipient Dyad (00:38:26)
  • Abundant Aging Questions for Kirsten (41:31)
  • Final Thoughts and Takeaways (46:06)

 

Abundant Aging is a podcast series presented by United Church Homes. These shows offer ideas, information, and inspiration on how to improve our lives as we grow older. To learn more and to subscribe to the show, visit abundantagingpodcast.com. 

Get in Touch

Copyright ©2025 All Rights Reserved