Innovations to Address Depression in High Resource Needs Older Adults

TL;DR

This paper explores new ways to improve mental health care for older adults using technology and social connections.

Contribution

The paper introduces innovative interventions like tele-delivered therapy and Alexa devices to address depression in older adults.

Findings

Behavioral activation and falls prevention interventions via video conferencing showed positive qualitative feedback.

Using Amazon Alexa devices improved technology acceptance and reduced depression in cognitively impaired older adults.

Intergenerational social connections increased mental health treatment engagement among older adults with self-neglect.

Abstract

This presentation highlights the implementation and preliminary outcomes of multiple studies aimed at improving mental health care access and treatment for older adults. A four-arm randomized controlled trial (RCT) examines behavioral activation (BA) and falls prevention (FP) interventions for homebound older adults with depression, delivered via video conferencing. Recruitment challenges include self-stigma and physical health crises, but qualitative feedback has been positive. Additionally, a feasibility study evaluated the use of Amazon Alexa Show 8 (AES8) devices among cognitively impaired homebound older adults, finding improvements in technology acceptance, depression, and social engagement. These findings informed a subsequent pilot study on remote AES8 installation to combat loneliness and isolation. Another RCT explores tele-delivered BA for post-stroke depression (PSD) prevention in low-income stroke survivors with subthreshold depression. Participants receive five weekly sessions and two booster calls, while the control group receives usual care. The study assesses PSD progression, anxiety, quality of life, and healthcare utilization. Lastly, a study on self-neglect (SN) in older adults—commonly linked to untreated depression—investigates whether intergenerational social connections improve mental health referral acceptance. Preliminary data suggest that pairing APS SN clients with health professional students for weekly calls fosters meaningful connections, leading to increased treatment engagement. Collectively, these studies underscore the role of technology, social engagement, and behavioral interventions in addressing geriatric mental health challenges. Findings support innovative, scalable approaches to enhance access to mental health care, reduce isolation, and improve outcomes for high-needs older adult populations.