Cost-effectiveness of Life Review for Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Pot Anne Margriet, Melenhorst Anne-Sophie, Onrust Simone, Bohlmeijer Ernst T
Primary Institution: Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction (Trimbos-instituut)
Hypothesis
Does the prevention program Looking for Meaning lead to a significant reduction of depressive symptoms and enhancement of wellbeing in elderly people with depressive symptoms compared to a no-treatment control group?
Conclusion
The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a life review course for older adults in reducing depressive symptoms and improving quality of life.
Supporting Evidence
- Depression in older adults is a serious health problem with a poor prognosis.
- Life review interventions have shown significant effects on depression and psychological well-being.
- The study includes both clinical and economic evaluations, which is novel in the field of life review.
Takeaway
This study is trying to see if a special course can help older people feel less sad and happier about their lives.
Methodology
A pragmatic randomized controlled trial comparing a 12-session life review course to a control group watching a 20-minute video.
Potential Biases
Therapists may present the life review course with more enthusiasm than the control condition, potentially skewing results.
Limitations
The control group receives a minimal intervention (a video), which may underestimate the effectiveness of the life review course.
Participant Demographics
Participants are aged 55 and older with slight to moderate depressive symptoms.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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