RESULTS FROM A MIXED METHODS RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL: PEER SUPPORT FOR DEPRESSION AMONG VULNERABLE OLDER ADULTS
2024
Peer Support for Depression in Older Adults
Sample size: 149
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Joo Jinhui
Primary Institution: Massachusetts General Hospital
Hypothesis
Does a one-to-one peer support intervention reduce depression among vulnerable older adults compared to social control?
Conclusion
The peer support intervention did not show superior results compared to social interactions with non-peers, but it may enhance coping and self-efficacy.
Supporting Evidence
- Both groups experienced a decrease in depression scores.
- Emotional well-being and self-efficacy increased for both groups.
- Loneliness decreased during the intervention for both groups.
- The intervention group learned coping skills and enacted behavior change.
Takeaway
Older adults with depression can benefit from peer support, but just talking to others might help too.
Methodology
A randomized controlled trial comparing peer support intervention with an active social control.
Limitations
The intervention was not superior to social interactions with non-peers.
Participant Demographics
Mean age 70, 84% women, 52% Black, 41% White.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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