A brief psychosocial intervention for depressed older adults with suicidal thoughts and behavior

Suicide rates are particularly high among older adults, especially men.

The overarching aim of this project is to develop and test an innovative "add-on" treatment, a brief psychosocial intervention for of depressed older adults (70+) with suicidal ideation.

In addition to weekly sessions using cognitive reappraisal techniques, an Ipad is programmed with individualised treatment for use between sessions. The content is modified for the participant´s functional level, allowing inclusion of cognitively impaired patients.

Prior to the development of the intervention manual, we will elucidate experiences of relatives in a qualitative interview study. Relatives will be invited to take part in 3 of the 12 therapy sessions.

The intervention will be evaluated in comparison with treatment as usual in a randomized controlled study at psychiatric clinics in Gothenburg, Stockholm and Umeå.

We will also carry out  a qualitative evaluation, with interviews with a purposive sample of patients and their relatives.

This project will bring together researchers in suicidology, nursing, gerontology, geriatrics, public health, and the humanities.

It is anticipated that results of the project will not only inform the development of more a person-centered care for suicidal older adults, but also contribute to a systemic perspective on suicidal behavior in older adults, that can help to reduce both ageist thinking and the stigma still associated with suicide in our culture today.