Abstract

JIMENEZ, María Guadalupe; IZAL, María  and  MONTORIO, Ignacio. An intervention program to enhance the wellbeing of the elderly. Pilot study based on positive psychology. Suma Psicol. [online]. 2016, vol.23, n.1, pp.51-59. ISSN 0121-4381.

The aim of this study was to show the efficacy of a pilot program based on positive psychology to enhance the well-being of the elderly. The experimental design included intervention and control groups. The sample consisted of 67 adults aged 60-89. The program included nine 1.5 hour weekly sessions. The program topics included character strengths, positive emotions, and emotional regulation. The variables assessed were affection, happiness level, concern level, optimism, and blood pressure. The results show that participants in the program significantly increased the happiness level and decreased the concern level, and systolic blood pressure. Increasing the level of happiness in the elderly favours the construction of personal resources and involvement with goals and projects that bring them to active and healthy aging. Results and limitations are discussed on the basis of the positive psychology and ageing psychology.

Keywords : Psychological wellbeing; Positive psychology; Character strengths; Positive emotions.

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