A STEPPED-CARE SOCIAL AND MENTAL HEALTH ENGAGEMENT INTERVENTION FOR OLDER ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES CLIENTS
2024

Engagement Intervention for Older Adults in Protective Services

Sample size: 200 publication

Author Information

Author(s): Burnett Jason, Wasik Sophia, Hernandez-Tejada Melba, Acierno Ron

Primary Institution: The University of Texas Houston

Hypothesis

Does a stepped-care social and mental health engagement approach reduce social isolation and loneliness in older adult APS clients?

Conclusion

The intervention shows promise in reducing social isolation and increasing the likelihood of depression treatment among older adult APS clients.

Supporting Evidence

  • 65 participants have been enrolled in the study so far.
  • 73% of those needing higher-level mental health treatment agreed to be contacted.

Takeaway

This study helps older adults who feel lonely by having students call them regularly to check in and offer support.

Methodology

Randomized waitlist control design with 8 weekly phone calls from trained students to APS clients.

Limitations

Only preliminary findings are discussed, and the full results are not yet available.

Participant Demographics

Older adult APS clients, primarily characterized as socially isolated and depressed.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.1067

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