Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a minimal psychological intervention to reduce non-severe depression in chronically ill elderly patients: the design of a randomised controlled trial
2006

Study on Psychological Intervention for Depression in Elderly Patients

Sample size: 361 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): F. Lamers, C.C.M. Jonkers, H. Bosma, J.P.M. Diederiks, J.Th.M. van Eijk

Primary Institution: Maastricht University

Hypothesis

The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a minimal psychological intervention to reduce non-severe depression in chronically ill elderly patients.

Conclusion

The preliminary results indicate high patient satisfaction with the intervention, and if proven effective, it may be implemented in healthcare.

Supporting Evidence

  • The intervention is based on cognitive behavioural therapy and self-management principles.
  • Preliminary results show high patient satisfaction with the intervention.

Takeaway

This study is trying to help older people with chronic illnesses feel less sad by teaching them new ways to think and manage their health.

Methodology

A two-armed randomised controlled trial comparing a minimal psychological intervention to usual care, including 361 patients with diabetes and COPD.

Limitations

The study had to screen a larger number of patients than anticipated to achieve the required sample size.

Participant Demographics

Patients aged 60 and over with diabetes mellitus type II or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, suffering from non-severe depression.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2458-6-161

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication