Story-Sharing Intervention to Improve Depression and Well-Being in Older Adults Transitioning to Long-Term Care

Older adults frequently experience depression and reduced well-being when transitioning to long-term care (LTC) that can lead to increased risk for mortality. In the current randomized controlled trial, older adults (N = 93) who were transitioning to LTC facilities in Southeast Florida were enlisted. It was hypothesized that when transitioning to LTC (a) story sharing (i.e., sharing stories in groups) could lead to reduced depression and improved well-being, and (b) baseline sociodemographic characteristics could predict depression and well-being. Baseline results revealed that participants were not depressed and had moderate well-being, and postintervention results indicated that there were no significant improvements in depression (p = 0.35) and well-being (p = 0.41). Some baseline sociodemographic characteristics predicted depression (p = 0.04) and well-being (p = 0.03). Future research should incorporate moderate depression as an inclusion criterion and more weeks of story-sharing sessions. Targets: Adults age 65 and older transitioning to LTC. Intervention Description: Two to three participants met as a group to share five stories over 3 weeks. Mechanisms of Action: Story sharing will improve well-being. Outcomes: Participant level of well-being will improve, and sociodemographic characteristics and factors related to the move will predict risk for depression and reduced well-being.