The effects of modified problem-solving therapy on depression, coping, and self-efficacy in elderly nursing home residents

Abstract

BackgroundWith the increasing trend of aging, the mental health problems of the elderly require urgent attention. Depression is a common psychological problem of the elderly, which affects their quality of life and physical health. Problem-solving therapy can effectively improve depression in the elderly, but there are few studies on problem-solving therapy for depression in the elderly in China. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of modified problem-solving therapy (MPST) on depression, coping and self-efficacy in elderly nursing home residents.MethodsThis study was a randomized controlled trial. A total of 60 older adults from two nursing homes were recruited to participate in this study and randomly assigned to the intervention group (MPST) or the control group (usual care). The intervention lasted 8 weeks, and information on depression, coping skills, and self-efficacy was collected before the intervention, immediately after the intervention, and 3 months after the intervention. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to compare changes at multiple time points between the two groups. If the interaction effect (group * time) was significant, independent samples t-test was used to compare the differences in outcome indicators between groups at post-intervention and 3 months post-intervention.ResultsCompared to the control group, depression scores in the intervention group were significantly lower at the end of the intervention and remained significantly lower than the control group 3 months post-intervention (p < 0.05). Negative coping and self-efficacy in the intervention group also improved significantly at the end of the intervention, and 3 months post-intervention, while positive coping in the two groups did not differ significantly at 3 months post-intervention.ConclusionThe findings of this study suggest that MPST could be beneficial in reducing depressive symptoms and enhancing positive coping and self-efficacy levels in older adults in nursing homes.

Psychological resilience and competence: key promoters of successful aging and flourishing in late life

“…Additionally, self-efficacy can be improved among older adults through problem-solving therapy. An 8-week-long intervention was found to increase selfefficacy in elderly nursing home residents both at the end of the intervention and 3 months post-intervention [108].…”

Effectiveness of Problem-Solving Therapy in Improving Patient Mental Health, Function, Quality of Life, and Mortality Post-Stroke: A Systematic Review

“…It assists patients in internalizing four basic problemsolving skills, known as the PST protocol: first, defining the problem; second, brainstorming possible solutions; third, evaluating and selecting the most promising solution; and fourth, implementing the preferred solution and reflecting on the outcome [23]. Through these systematic steps, therapists enable individuals to effectively address problems, refine coping skills, and alleviate depressive symptoms [24][25][26][27][28]. Therefore, PST contributes to improved QoL and physical well-being [29].…”