An article recently published in the Washington Post detailed an NIH-funded study being carried out at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center that is breaking down barriers.
The Pittsburgh clinical trials are aimed at discovering whether older adults who are taught the necessary skills to cope with their illnesses, can prevent the onset of depression. Major depression is considered an undertreated mental health problem among seniors, one that can have serious negative effects on their overall vitality. 
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 5 percent of adults age 65 and older have major depression. This condition can result in disability, early death and suicide. The percentage goes up dramatically (25 to 40 percent) if a senior is hospitalized or placed in a nursing home, another reason why choosing an affordable homecare service in Phoenix is recommended. As additional health risks happen from the apathy or hopelessness that often accompanies depression. When seniors feel ‘left-behind’ they may forgo taking medications or fail to follow other critical medical directives. A qualified senior caregiver can help ease a family’s anxiety over this crucial misstep and ensure their loved one is in capable hands.
The Pittsburgh study, which will last 5 years, focuses on three specific groups of seniors considered high-risk for developing depression; those with osteoarthritis, a mild cognitive impairment or in need of social and medical assistance. The group of 200 participants will receive prevention-oriented interventions including 12 sessions of various behavioral therapies. Researchers will then follow participants for 12 months to record how many are diagnosed with depression.
So far, several seniors involved in the study have spoken out on its effectiveness to teach them positive coping methods and grant them better pain management.
At Cypress HomeCare Solutions, our skilled caregivers create a compassionate environment making sure they meet each of our clients’ specific needs. Our clients are of utmost importance to us and by re-enforcing this in each home we enter; Cypress HomeCare Solutions has become one of the top providers for home care in Arizona! Call Cypress HomeCare Solutions today at 602-264-8009 or contact us online to schedule your free in-home care assessment.
