Varida Kautner

When Older People Dream:: Experiences in an Ullman Dream Group Varida Kautner

Medical advancements have made it possible for people to live longer, healthier lives. Many older people are enjoying their retirement years in vibrant, senior communities with a myriad of stimulating activities. Others are cared for by family members. Those who have outlived loved ones, who have physical limitations, and who have no outside emotional support often experience loneliness and low self worth. In such situations, a high incidence of major depression and even suicide is possible. This book explores how the sharing of dreams in a group setting can positively impact the mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of those who are willing to open their hearts to others. During this process, people of diverse backgrounds help each other work on releasing self-imposed psychological barriers. Fear of feeling different or thoughts like "no one can understand what I'm going through," eventually subside. The "dream appreciation group" format used for this project was created by renowned New York psychiatrist, Montague Ullman, who believed that dreams are a path to healing. It is my hope that this book may inspire those who have lost faith in the power of the human connection.