Ageism exists and is prevalent in American society, but attitudes are slowly changing and new public policies are affecting the lives of elderly Americans. Awareness of and participation in the arts is one solution to the far-reaching problem of increasing self-esteem and physical health among the elderly. One method of involving older people in artistic activity is to create an arts program in creative dramatics that could be used in the senior citizen setting. The five elements of drama (conflict, characterization, action, sense awareness, and dialogue) can be worked into a program to help the elderly communicate ideas; this, in turn, would enhance their positive self-concept. In all activities involving creative drama, the human development of the players both individually and as a group is the goal, rather than the satisfaction of an audience. The program must include ways for the elderly to learn and demonstrate skills in interpersonal and intrapersonal communication, listening, group communication and problem-solving, observation, and finally, concentration. These goals can be pursued through a variety of techniques: rhythmic/musical activities, sense awareness exercises, pantomimes, improvisations and narratives, and story dramatization. (Specific suggestions for activities are included.) (KEH)