Abstract
BackgroundDepression is one of the most common mental disorders in older adults. Unfortunately, it often goes unrecognized in the older population.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to identify how Web-based apps can recognize and help treat depression in older adults.MethodsFocus groups were conducted with mental health care experts. A Web-based survey of 56 older adults suffering from depression was conducted. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 2 individuals.ResultsResults of the focus groups highlighted that there is a need for a collaborative care platform for depression in old age. Findings from the Web-based study showed that younger participants (aged 50 to 64 years) used electronic media more often than older participants (aged 65 years and older). The interviews pointed in a comparable direction.ConclusionsOverall, an e-mental (electronic mental) health treatment for depression in older adults would be well accepted. Web-based care platforms should be developed, evaluated, and in case of evidence for their effectiveness, integrated into the everyday clinic.
Highlights
In 2014, about 18.5% of the approximately 506.8 million inhabitants of the European Union were aged over 65 years
The focus groups investigated what experts consider is required for a collaborative online care platform to work and how experts rate the benefits of a collaborative internet-based care platform for older and depressed individuals
The need to develop a collaborative care platform for depression in old age was repeatedly emphasized during both focus groups
Summary
In 2014, about 18.5% of the approximately 506.8 million inhabitants of the European Union were aged over 65 years. Depression is one of the most common mental disorders in older adults. It often goes unrecognized in the older population. Objective: The aim of this study was to identify how Web-based apps can recognize and help treat depression in older adults. Methods: Focus groups were conducted with mental health care experts. A Web-based survey of 56 older adults suffering from depression was conducted. Results: Results of the focus groups highlighted that there is a need for a collaborative care platform for depression in old age. Web-based care platforms should be developed, evaluated, and in case of evidence for their effectiveness, integrated into the everyday clinic
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