Psychology lecturers from Mercu Buana University Yogyakarta (UMBY) have once again demonstrated their commitment to creating a healthy and prosperous society. This time, they conducted a community service activity (PkM) titled "Psychoeducation for the Mental Health of the Elderly Towards Optimum Aging."

This activity targeted 25 members of the Senopati Yogyakarta Batik Cooperative Association. This community consists of senior women, former batik entrepreneurs, who are now focused on maintaining togetherness and social well-being in their retirement.

The program was led by Malida Fatimah, S.Psi., M.Cons., along with a team of UMBY psychology lecturers, Dr. Sri Muliati Abdullah, S.Psi., M.A., Psychologist, and Narastri Insan Utami, S.Psi., M.Psi., with assistance from UMBY Psychology students Alifah Salsabila Putri Faizurrahman, Rahma Hidayanti, and Gabriel Alexandro Sangkai.

"This program we've developed invites seniors to rediscover happiness and the meaning of life through an art therapy approach. This approach combines painting, dancing, and singing as a medium for self-expression and healing," said Malida.

The activity, held on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at the Senopati Batik Cooperative in Yogyakarta, featured Fanny Fauzy Hannifuniam, S.Psi., M.Psi., Psychologist, as the primary trainer and facilitator, who guided the art therapy session with an empathetic and warm approach.

Fauzy explained that through art therapy, seniors are encouraged to rediscover simple joys and the positive power within themselves. The painting session encouraged participants to channel their feelings and memories through images of mountain landscapes and rice fields, symbols of childhood that evoke nostalgia and emotional warmth.

Following the Happy Dance session, participants moved to the rhythm of nostalgic songs such as "Andai Aku Bisa" (If I Could) and "Kisah Kasih di Sekolah" (Love Story at School).

"These simple movements not only maintain physical fitness but also strengthen social connections and promote laughter among participants," said Fanny Fauzy.

Then, in the "Memory Melody" music therapy, participants were invited to reminisce through old songs. Songs act as a bridge that rekindles memories of their youth and fosters feelings of happiness.

"We hope this emotional reflection will enable participants to recall their fond memories and use them as a source of positive strength, rather than sadness," explained Fanny Fauzy.

Fauzy added that through art, seniors can express things that might be difficult to express with words. Every color, movement, and tone becomes the healing language of the soul.

The psychoeducational approach adopted by the UMBY community service team aims not only to educate but also to provide a therapeutic effect for participants.

"Through art and movement, seniors learn to express themselves, manage their emotions, and strengthen their self-confidence as an important foundation for achieving optimal aging," explained Maulida.

Meanwhile, Dr. Sri Muliati Abdullah, S.Psi., M.A., Psychologist, emphasized the importance of psychological well-being in the aging process.

"Successful aging isn't just about maintaining a healthy body, but also about how one remains empowered, connected, and happy in old age," explained Sri Muliati.

Not only did this activity leave a lasting impression on the organizers, it also received a positive response from the participants.

"I feel like I've gained a lot of new knowledge about psychology and how to apply it to my daily life. I really hope to participate in further training in the future," said Listiatie, one of the participants enthusiastically.

This activity is a clear demonstration of UMBY's commitment to implementing psychology for community empowerment, especially the elderly, who are often overlooked when it comes to mental health issues. Through a humanistic and creative approach, this activity is expected to inspire similar programs in other regions.

"Growing is a natural process, but aging happily is a choice, a choice that begins with awareness, support, and love from others," concluded Maulida.