Tele-drama therapy for community dwelling older adults with constricted life-space mobility: a randomized controlled trial

Older adults with constricted life-space mobility (limited range of movement and activity within one’s environment) face an increased risk of social isolation and poor psychological well-being. Developing accessible interventions tailored for this population is crucial. This randomized controlled trial examined the effect of a 12-week tele-drama therapy intervention on psychological well-being and the relationships between in-session therapeutic change factors and outcomes. A total of 111 older adults, aged 63–102, with constricted life-space mobility participated in this study, delivered via Uniper Care, a social club aimed at promoting active aging through accessible technology designed with and for older adults (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT06419881). The intervention effectively improved social connectedness, personal growth, and general well-being, while also decreasing depressive symptoms. Individual differences influenced participants’ experiences of the therapeutic and creative process. These findings can help refine the theories and practice of tele-drama therapy interventions.