Desing of an Active Ageing Program for Rural areas in Galicia - ENRUGA
Authorship
G.B.G.
Inter-University Master in Psychogerontology (2ª ed)
G.B.G.
Inter-University Master in Psychogerontology (2ª ed)
Defense date
09.15.2025 09:15
09.15.2025 09:15
Summary
This Master's Thesis presents an intervention program based on active ageing, adapted to the context of rural Galicia. The initiative arises from the need to promote change and improve the lives of older adults, especially those living in areas with limited access to resources, geographic dispersion, and a high risk of social isolation. Based on a review of various international, national, and regional approaches and policies, a program is designed to promote autonomy, health, and well-being from a comprehensive perspective. The program, named ENRUGA, is structured around three main pillars: cognitive stimulation, physical activity through gerontogymnastics, and the strengthening of social relationships and community participation. It is conceived as a decentralized intervention to be carried out in different parishes of the rural municipality, with morning and afternoon sessions to improve accessibility and encourage participation. The professional team is composed of a psychologist, a social worker, and a social educator. These professionals will rotate in order to cover all the selected centers. The proposal includes a detailed planning of objectives, target population, resources, timeline, and specific activities for each program area. Furthermore, an evaluation system is proposed to assess the effectiveness of the intervention, combining standardized tools such as the CAMCOG-R, the GDS-15, and the De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale, along with a custom-designed satisfaction survey. The expected outcomes point to a positive impact on the daily lives of older participants, both at an individual and community level.
This Master's Thesis presents an intervention program based on active ageing, adapted to the context of rural Galicia. The initiative arises from the need to promote change and improve the lives of older adults, especially those living in areas with limited access to resources, geographic dispersion, and a high risk of social isolation. Based on a review of various international, national, and regional approaches and policies, a program is designed to promote autonomy, health, and well-being from a comprehensive perspective. The program, named ENRUGA, is structured around three main pillars: cognitive stimulation, physical activity through gerontogymnastics, and the strengthening of social relationships and community participation. It is conceived as a decentralized intervention to be carried out in different parishes of the rural municipality, with morning and afternoon sessions to improve accessibility and encourage participation. The professional team is composed of a psychologist, a social worker, and a social educator. These professionals will rotate in order to cover all the selected centers. The proposal includes a detailed planning of objectives, target population, resources, timeline, and specific activities for each program area. Furthermore, an evaluation system is proposed to assess the effectiveness of the intervention, combining standardized tools such as the CAMCOG-R, the GDS-15, and the De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale, along with a custom-designed satisfaction survey. The expected outcomes point to a positive impact on the daily lives of older participants, both at an individual and community level.
Direction
Facal Mayo, David (Tutorships)
Facal Mayo, David (Tutorships)
Court
Zurrón Ocio, Montserrat (Chairman)
Mallo López, Sabela Carme (Secretary)
PEREIRO ROZAS, ARTURO JOSE (Member)
Zurrón Ocio, Montserrat (Chairman)
Mallo López, Sabela Carme (Secretary)
PEREIRO ROZAS, ARTURO JOSE (Member)
Self-efficacy and consumption intentions in adolescents. The importance of prevention.
Authorship
S.B.V.
Master in General Health Psychology
S.B.V.
Master in General Health Psychology
Defense date
09.10.2025 10:00
09.10.2025 10:00
Summary
This study examines the relationship between perceived self-efficacy and the intention to use substances among adolescents, aiming to identify its role as a protective factor against risk behaviors. Validated instruments (SEF, SDQ, EAG, and the “Mantente Real” program questionnaire) were administered to a sample of 88 secondary school students. One general dimension of self-efficacy, and three specific (academic, social, and self-regulation) were assessed in relation to substance use intention, attitudes toward drugs, peer pressure, and deviant behaviors. Results showed a negative association between social and self-regulatory self-efficacy and the intention to use substances, as well as with various psychosocial risk variables. No significant gender differences or associations with general self-efficacy were found. The findings highlight the importance of specifically promoting these dimensions of self-efficacy from an early age to prevent substance initiation. Based on these results, an applied intervention is proposed, involving modifications to the “Construyendo Salud” program, which has proven effective in reducing adolescents’ vulnerability to peer pressure and promoting healthier lifestyles.
This study examines the relationship between perceived self-efficacy and the intention to use substances among adolescents, aiming to identify its role as a protective factor against risk behaviors. Validated instruments (SEF, SDQ, EAG, and the “Mantente Real” program questionnaire) were administered to a sample of 88 secondary school students. One general dimension of self-efficacy, and three specific (academic, social, and self-regulation) were assessed in relation to substance use intention, attitudes toward drugs, peer pressure, and deviant behaviors. Results showed a negative association between social and self-regulatory self-efficacy and the intention to use substances, as well as with various psychosocial risk variables. No significant gender differences or associations with general self-efficacy were found. The findings highlight the importance of specifically promoting these dimensions of self-efficacy from an early age to prevent substance initiation. Based on these results, an applied intervention is proposed, involving modifications to the “Construyendo Salud” program, which has proven effective in reducing adolescents’ vulnerability to peer pressure and promoting healthier lifestyles.
Direction
GOMEZ FRAGUELA, Xosé Antón (Tutorships)
GOMEZ FRAGUELA, Xosé Antón (Tutorships)
Court
Vazquez Rodriguez, Maria Isabel (Chairman)
CORRAL VARELA, MARIA MONTSERRAT (Secretary)
MARTINEZ VISPO, CARMELA (Member)
Vazquez Rodriguez, Maria Isabel (Chairman)
CORRAL VARELA, MARIA MONTSERRAT (Secretary)
MARTINEZ VISPO, CARMELA (Member)
JustArt Intervention Program Design for Managing Loneliness in Older Adults through Art Therapy
Authorship
D.C.C.P.
Inter-University Master in Psychogerontology (2ª ed)
D.C.C.P.
Inter-University Master in Psychogerontology (2ª ed)
Defense date
09.16.2025 11:00
09.16.2025 11:00
Summary
Loneliness in older adults is a complex and growing issue, linked to social, emotional, and health-related factors, and it significantly affects their psychological well-being and quality of life. This phenomenon can be understood as the result of a combination of factors, including the loss of emotional bonds, social isolation, health deterioration, or institutionalization. The invisibility of this issue, combined with the limited availability of interventions focused on the emotional dimension of aging, highlights the need to develop innovative and specific proposals. This Master's Thesis presents a psychoemotional intervention program based on art therapy, titled SoloEsArte, aimed at reducing feelings of loneliness and improving the emotional well-being of older adults attending the NetAvó day center. The methodology adopted is based on an experiential, participatory, and person-centered approach, using painting as the main tool for emotional expression and the enhancement of self-awareness and identity. The sessions include activities that allow participants to explore emotions, significant memories, and personal experiences through artistic techniques that are accessible and adapted to the group’s abilities. To assess the impact of the program, an evaluation strategy has been designed that includes both standardized tools and ad-hoc instruments: an initial expectations questionnaire, satisfaction surveys after each session, a final evaluation questionnaire, and pre- and post-intervention application of the De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale. In addition, a field diary is kept to collect qualitative observations on the development of each session. SoloEsArte is presented as an innovative and sensitive intervention that introduces art as a therapeutic tool in gerontological contexts, comprehensively addressing aspects of aging that are often overlooked. Despite its potential, the program has limitations, such as the absence of a control group and its short duration, which could be addressed in future research.
Loneliness in older adults is a complex and growing issue, linked to social, emotional, and health-related factors, and it significantly affects their psychological well-being and quality of life. This phenomenon can be understood as the result of a combination of factors, including the loss of emotional bonds, social isolation, health deterioration, or institutionalization. The invisibility of this issue, combined with the limited availability of interventions focused on the emotional dimension of aging, highlights the need to develop innovative and specific proposals. This Master's Thesis presents a psychoemotional intervention program based on art therapy, titled SoloEsArte, aimed at reducing feelings of loneliness and improving the emotional well-being of older adults attending the NetAvó day center. The methodology adopted is based on an experiential, participatory, and person-centered approach, using painting as the main tool for emotional expression and the enhancement of self-awareness and identity. The sessions include activities that allow participants to explore emotions, significant memories, and personal experiences through artistic techniques that are accessible and adapted to the group’s abilities. To assess the impact of the program, an evaluation strategy has been designed that includes both standardized tools and ad-hoc instruments: an initial expectations questionnaire, satisfaction surveys after each session, a final evaluation questionnaire, and pre- and post-intervention application of the De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale. In addition, a field diary is kept to collect qualitative observations on the development of each session. SoloEsArte is presented as an innovative and sensitive intervention that introduces art as a therapeutic tool in gerontological contexts, comprehensively addressing aspects of aging that are often overlooked. Despite its potential, the program has limitations, such as the absence of a control group and its short duration, which could be addressed in future research.
Direction
RODRIGUEZ MARTINEZ, ANTONIO (Tutorships)
RODRIGUEZ MARTINEZ, ANTONIO (Tutorships)
Court
Díaz Fernández, Fernando (Chairman)
Lojo Seoane, Cristina (Secretary)
Facal Mayo, David (Member)
Díaz Fernández, Fernando (Chairman)
Lojo Seoane, Cristina (Secretary)
Facal Mayo, David (Member)
Caring while you care: Strategies to Address Anticipatory Grief in the Care of People with Dementia
Authorship
L.C.R.
Inter-University Master in Psychogerontology (2ª ed)
L.C.R.
Inter-University Master in Psychogerontology (2ª ed)
Defense date
09.16.2025 11:00
09.16.2025 11:00
Summary
The “Take care of yourself while you care for others” intervention proposal arose in response to the emotional impact of being an informal caregiver for a person with dementia, especially in the face of anticipatory grief due to progressive cognitive, functional, and relational losses. Although this is a natural reaction, it often manifests itself silently and can lead to unhealthy patterns that affect the caregiver's well being. The psychoeducational intervention is designed to be carried out at the AGADEA Family School and is structured in five group sessions with a practical and emotional focus. Through content on emotional validation, self-care, coping, and support networks, it seeks to reduce emotional overload, strengthen resilience, and prevent complications associated with the caregiving process. Although it has not yet been implemented, it is expected to be an accessible, useful, and replicable resource in different contexts.
The “Take care of yourself while you care for others” intervention proposal arose in response to the emotional impact of being an informal caregiver for a person with dementia, especially in the face of anticipatory grief due to progressive cognitive, functional, and relational losses. Although this is a natural reaction, it often manifests itself silently and can lead to unhealthy patterns that affect the caregiver's well being. The psychoeducational intervention is designed to be carried out at the AGADEA Family School and is structured in five group sessions with a practical and emotional focus. Through content on emotional validation, self-care, coping, and support networks, it seeks to reduce emotional overload, strengthen resilience, and prevent complications associated with the caregiving process. Although it has not yet been implemented, it is expected to be an accessible, useful, and replicable resource in different contexts.
Direction
Mallo López, Sabela Carme (Tutorships)
Mallo López, Sabela Carme (Tutorships)
Court
Díaz Fernández, Fernando (Chairman)
Lojo Seoane, Cristina (Secretary)
Facal Mayo, David (Member)
Díaz Fernández, Fernando (Chairman)
Lojo Seoane, Cristina (Secretary)
Facal Mayo, David (Member)
“Caring for the Caregiver: Virtual Reality and Psychoeducational Strategies for Reducing Stress, Anxiety, and Depression in Alzheimer’s Caregiving”
Authorship
P.S.C.B.
Inter-University Master in Psychogerontology (2ª ed)
P.S.C.B.
Inter-University Master in Psychogerontology (2ª ed)
Defense date
09.15.2025 09:15
09.15.2025 09:15
Summary
Alzheimer’s disease significantly impacts both those diagnosed and their non- professional caregivers, who often face high levels of stress and anxiety due to the continuous demands of care and lack of emotional support. This Master’s Final Project presents an innovative program that combines psychoeducational strategies with the therapeutic use of virtual reality. The main objective is to provide emotional support to caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s through structured sessions focused on self-care, emotional regulation and strengthening support networks. The program is implemented over 18 weeks, with sessions divided into three segments: an emotional sharing space, psychoeducational content and immersive relaxation in virtual environments. To evaluate the program’s effectiveness, validated instruments are used to measure changes in stress, anxiety, depressive symptoms and psychological well-being. The intervention is expected to significantly improve caregivers’ quality of life and serve as a replicable model in low-resource settings. Furthermore, it contributes to the field of psychogerontology by integrating technology and emotional health as a comprehensive support strategy for those who care with dedication.
Alzheimer’s disease significantly impacts both those diagnosed and their non- professional caregivers, who often face high levels of stress and anxiety due to the continuous demands of care and lack of emotional support. This Master’s Final Project presents an innovative program that combines psychoeducational strategies with the therapeutic use of virtual reality. The main objective is to provide emotional support to caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s through structured sessions focused on self-care, emotional regulation and strengthening support networks. The program is implemented over 18 weeks, with sessions divided into three segments: an emotional sharing space, psychoeducational content and immersive relaxation in virtual environments. To evaluate the program’s effectiveness, validated instruments are used to measure changes in stress, anxiety, depressive symptoms and psychological well-being. The intervention is expected to significantly improve caregivers’ quality of life and serve as a replicable model in low-resource settings. Furthermore, it contributes to the field of psychogerontology by integrating technology and emotional health as a comprehensive support strategy for those who care with dedication.
Direction
PICON PRADO, EDUARDO (Tutorships)
PICON PRADO, EDUARDO (Tutorships)
Court
Zurrón Ocio, Montserrat (Chairman)
Mallo López, Sabela Carme (Secretary)
PEREIRO ROZAS, ARTURO JOSE (Member)
Zurrón Ocio, Montserrat (Chairman)
Mallo López, Sabela Carme (Secretary)
PEREIRO ROZAS, ARTURO JOSE (Member)
“Communicating with Well-being”: A Psychoeducational Program Proposal to Strengthen Communication and Interpersonal Relationships among Staff in Day Centers Specialized in Alzheimer’s Care.
Authorship
G.D.L.C.G.A.
Inter-University Master in Psychogerontology (2ª ed)
G.D.L.C.G.A.
Inter-University Master in Psychogerontology (2ª ed)
Defense date
09.15.2025 09:15
09.15.2025 09:15
Summary
This proposal describes a comprehensive psychoeducational program aimed at strengthening communication skills and interpersonal relationships of staff in Alzheimer's day care centers. Its main objective is to foster a participatory environment among all the agents involved in the care process in order to provide quality person-centered care. Caring for people with this disease involves specific challenges due to the progressive loss of communication skills, which generates additional emotional demands and high levels of stress in professionals. Faced with this reality, the program proposes a theoretical-practical intervention divided into modules that address from the basics of effective and assertive communication, to specific strategies for interacting with people with dementia, stress management, burnout prevention and strengthening resilience. In addition, the importance of improving team cohesion and conflict resolution skills is highlighted, recognizing that staff wellbeing directly influences the quality of care offered. The implementation of this proposal represents a strategic investment in the human capital of the centers, as it seeks to generate a positive impact on both the emotional health of the team and the quality of life of the users. Improved communication and interpersonal relationships are expected to promote a more empathetic environment, reduce the incidence of burnout syndrome and raise the standard of care. This comprehensive approach is key to building a sustainable and humane care system.
This proposal describes a comprehensive psychoeducational program aimed at strengthening communication skills and interpersonal relationships of staff in Alzheimer's day care centers. Its main objective is to foster a participatory environment among all the agents involved in the care process in order to provide quality person-centered care. Caring for people with this disease involves specific challenges due to the progressive loss of communication skills, which generates additional emotional demands and high levels of stress in professionals. Faced with this reality, the program proposes a theoretical-practical intervention divided into modules that address from the basics of effective and assertive communication, to specific strategies for interacting with people with dementia, stress management, burnout prevention and strengthening resilience. In addition, the importance of improving team cohesion and conflict resolution skills is highlighted, recognizing that staff wellbeing directly influences the quality of care offered. The implementation of this proposal represents a strategic investment in the human capital of the centers, as it seeks to generate a positive impact on both the emotional health of the team and the quality of life of the users. Improved communication and interpersonal relationships are expected to promote a more empathetic environment, reduce the incidence of burnout syndrome and raise the standard of care. This comprehensive approach is key to building a sustainable and humane care system.
Direction
Facal Mayo, David (Tutorships)
Facal Mayo, David (Tutorships)
Court
Zurrón Ocio, Montserrat (Chairman)
Mallo López, Sabela Carme (Secretary)
PEREIRO ROZAS, ARTURO JOSE (Member)
Zurrón Ocio, Montserrat (Chairman)
Mallo López, Sabela Carme (Secretary)
PEREIRO ROZAS, ARTURO JOSE (Member)
Proposal of a brief protocol for stabilization and preparation for trauma therapy in borderline patients with low comorbidity.
Authorship
M.M.S.
Master in General Health Psychology
M.M.S.
Master in General Health Psychology
Defense date
09.10.2025 10:45
09.10.2025 10:45
Summary
Intervention in people with Borderline Personality Disorder remains a challenge today for both professionals and patients, who often do not have access to long-term treatments due to economic, logistical or adherence issues. Moreover, considering the importance of traumatic events in the development of this disorder, it is possible that they could benefit from trauma-oriented interventions. In view of the difficulties of these patients to feel well supported by the health care systems, and the lack of interventions that perform a stabilization in the short term, we propose in the present work a brief intervention program for people with this pathology who are free of comorbidities, with the aim of allowing an initial stabilization that allows the continuation with long term treatments when they become available. For this purpose, an intervention is carried out in 3 months with 1 weekly session in individual format opting for an integrative approach of psychoeducation and EMDR. Finally, to test the feasibility of the intervention, it is applied to 2 patients of the INTRA-TP health center.
Intervention in people with Borderline Personality Disorder remains a challenge today for both professionals and patients, who often do not have access to long-term treatments due to economic, logistical or adherence issues. Moreover, considering the importance of traumatic events in the development of this disorder, it is possible that they could benefit from trauma-oriented interventions. In view of the difficulties of these patients to feel well supported by the health care systems, and the lack of interventions that perform a stabilization in the short term, we propose in the present work a brief intervention program for people with this pathology who are free of comorbidities, with the aim of allowing an initial stabilization that allows the continuation with long term treatments when they become available. For this purpose, an intervention is carried out in 3 months with 1 weekly session in individual format opting for an integrative approach of psychoeducation and EMDR. Finally, to test the feasibility of the intervention, it is applied to 2 patients of the INTRA-TP health center.
Direction
OTERO LOPEZ, JOSE MANUEL (Tutorships)
OTERO LOPEZ, JOSE MANUEL (Tutorships)
Court
Vazquez Rodriguez, Maria Isabel (Chairman)
CORRAL VARELA, MARIA MONTSERRAT (Secretary)
MARTINEZ VISPO, CARMELA (Member)
Vazquez Rodriguez, Maria Isabel (Chairman)
CORRAL VARELA, MARIA MONTSERRAT (Secretary)
MARTINEZ VISPO, CARMELA (Member)