This research examines the effectiveness of workshops based on positive psychology for the elderly by analyzing pre-post changes in levels of life satisfaction and depressive symptomatology. Three groups were formed: the first, a quasi-experimental group based on positive psychology; the second, a quasi-active control group based on recreational activities; and the third, a quasi-inactive control group without intervention. The instruments used were: Yesavage Geriatric Depression Scale and Life Satisfaction Scale of Diener. Results indicated that only the group that attended positive psychology-based workshops significantly decreased depressive symptoms and significantly increased their levels of life satisfaction after the intervention. These results are discussed in the light of current researches in positive psychology.
Life satisfaction; depressive symptoms; Positive Psychology; happiness
