NERS NEWS – A total of 32 elderly residents participated in a Painting Group Activity Therapy (TAK) session organized by Nursing Clinical Practice (PKK) students from Groups B7 and B8 at UPTD Griya Wreda Kalijudan on April 30, 2026. This activity was designed to provide psychological stimulation and enhance the emotional well-being of the elderly through simple and enjoyable creative expression.
The therapy was conducted using a finger painting technique with a safe and controlled approach. Students applied watercolors to the participants’ thumbs using a brush, and the residents then pressed their thumbs onto canvas to form patterns according to their own imaginations. This method facilitated easier participation for the elderly while maintaining cleanliness and comfort throughout the activity.
The program involved PKK students from Groups B7 and B8 as facilitators and 32 elderly residents as participants. The entire sequence was carried out gradually and independently with direct assistance from the students at UPTD Griya Wreda Kalijudan. This painting activity aimed to stimulate fine motor skills, improve concentration, and provide a relaxing effect for the residents. Furthermore, it played a role in enhancing social interaction and self-confidence among the participants.
This Painting Group Activity Therapy contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, which emphasizes the importance of improving health and well-being at all ages, including the elderly. Through therapeutic creative activities, this initiative provides psychological stimulation, improves the quality of social interaction, and helps create a more positive and pleasant atmosphere. Thus, this therapy serves not only as entertainment but also as part of a promotive effort to maintain sustainable mental and emotional health for the elderly.
“Through this activity, we hope the elderly can experience happiness, tranquility, and have a space to express themselves positively. The enthusiasm shown is proof that simple activities can have a meaningful impact,” stated Arika Tri Wulandari, a representative of the PKK student group.
The session provided a delightful experience for the residents, marked by active participation and positive responses throughout. The finished artworks were later displayed in the dining hall as a form of appreciation for the participants’ creativity. This activity is expected to become a sustainable non-pharmacological intervention to support the mental and social health of the elderly.
Author: Dea Heranda
Editor: Farah Dina Azizatul Aulia (Airlangga Nursing Journalist)
