Participating in a theater program can help boost psychological well-being and health-related quality of life in older adults who have chronic conditions, according to a recent study.

Researchers looked at the effect of taking part in the "Seasoned Arts At the Samford for You" program on the quality of life for 12 low-income, older adults with chronic conditions. The SAASY program included a six-week acting class, which met for two hours each week. The participants also took part in four public performances.

Researchers found the participants claimed they gained an improved sense of self-worth and self-advocacy while also overcoming self-imposed limitations. Practice implications for occupational therapists who are using drama to promote health may include analyzing the participant[']s occupational profile, identifying deficit areas and adapting the acting program to meet a patient[']s specific goals and needs, the authors wrote.

The research, which was published by the journal Occupational Therapy International, was conducted by researchers at the University of Alabama in Birmingham. •