THE GROUP

This article describes an effective summer day program for the mentally impaired elderly. It discusses and illustrdtes the helping principles applied in a life model and interactionally oriented group and milieu approach. A sense of self is restored through community, and through providing opportunities for recall through community, and through providing opportunities for recall through doing, talking and sharing common feelings. The provision of a positive here and now experience which recognizes and bolsten strengths makes it more attractive to live more fully here and now. Even the most regressed patients improved in outlook and functioning as a result of the group experience.