FC50: Development of a novel psychoeducational intervention promoting mental health in older adults: survey collection and curriculum design

Abstract

Objectives: 1) To evaluate interest, logistics, and content for a curriculum to promote well-being in older adults by gathering data through surveys of nursing home populations. 2) To design a curriculum syllabus that can be carried out and shared by analyzing our survey data and combining it with evidence-based practices from the literature including positive psychiatry approaches and elements of different psychotherapies.

Methods: Long-term and short-term care patients from Budd Terrace and A.G. Rhodes nursing homes were recruited to participate in a survey. Categorical frequency calculations were used to evaluate participant interest and logistical preferences. Ranked scores and distribution columns were used to evaluate course content.

Results: 100 participants completed the survey. 55.1% expressed interest in attending this type of course. For class length, frequency, duration, and size, average preference was for 30 minutes, once a week, 2– 4 weeks, and 6–10 people, respectively. Between pillars, in order of priority, preferences were: meaning in life (ranked score 215), mindfulness (198), and social connection (157). Within the meaning in life pillar, preferences in order of priority were: gratitude for life lived (268), life priorities (249), sources of meaning (235), and goals (188). Within the mindfulness pillar, preferences in order of priority were: emotional stability (272), focusing awareness on the present moment (261), acknowledging and accepting thoughts and feelings (240), and self-compassion (187). Within the social connection pillar, preferences in order of priority were: increasing opportunities for social connections (266), enhancing social support (245), improving social skills (240), and addressing worries about social situations (169).

Conclusions: By combining logistical and content preferences from our population sample with evidence-based practices from the literature, we have developed a psychoeducational course to promote mental health in older adults, centered around three pillars: meaning in life, mindfulness, and social connection. A curriculum syllabus complete with course description, learning Objectives, weekly topics/timelines, materials needed, notes, and handouts will be included with the final manuscript. The handouts can also be selected and distributed outside of a course context, such as outpatient clinics or inpatients settings, and curriculum elements can be incorporated into group or individual therapy.