This course was developed to combat depression in older age groups (over 55), by means of working with memories and life stories. In order to boost the scientific basis for the course and thus (further) increase its usage in mental health care, the Trimbos Institute conducted a study, with a view to establishing the course’s effectiveness.
The effects of participation were compared to a control group of older people who had only received a minimal intervention, in the form of viewing the film ‘The art of growing older’.
The results of the study showed that participation in the course did indeed lead to a reduction of depressive symptoms, particularly among women and those with clinically relevant depressive symptoms. This effect was not found among those who had seen the film.
Furthermore, the effect was still visible six months after completion of the course. Anxiety symptoms also abated as a result of the course. However, this effect was also found in the control group.
Op zoek naar zin [Searching for Meaning] is therefore recommended as a prevention course for older people with depressive symptoms.
The research findings were recently published internationally:
Pot AM, Bohlmeijer ET, Onrust S, Melenhorst AS, Veerbeek M, De Vries, W (2010). The impact of life review on depression in older adults: a randomized controlled trial. International Psychogeriatrics, 22(4), 572-581.
Contact: Anne Margriet Pot
