Feasibility of a peer support intervention using video chats and texting for older adults with depression (Preprint)

BACKGROUND Depression in later life is often compounded by social isolation and barriers to care. There is limited study of technology-enhanced peer support for depression among older adults. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a technology-enhanced peer support intervention to decrease depression among older adults. METHODS We used a mixed-methods pilot study among adults aged 50 years and older with depression who received a peer support intervention called Peers+. The intervention consisted of 8 weekly video chats and unidirectional texts focused on increasing depression self-care and coping. Data obtained from screening, baseline, post-intervention and 3 months follow up were used in the analysis to assess preliminary outcomes of intervention. Mixed effects longitudinal models were used to assess change in depression, and qualitative data was analyzed to identify key themes related to participant experiences. RESULTS Thirty-four older adults with a mean age of 67 participated in the study, and 82.4 % of participants finished all 8 intervention meetings. Depressive symptoms declined over the course of the study of 35 weeks [F(1, 88.8) = 26.0, β = -0.14, 95% CI [-0.20, -0.09], p < .0001]. Emotional well-being (β = 0.48, 95% CI [0.26, 0.70], p < .0001), social functioning (β = 0.71, 95% CI [0.33,1.09], p = .0004), self-efficacy (β = 2.29, 95% CI [0.83, 3.75], p = .0028) and coping (β = 2.90, 95% CI [0.24, 5.55], p = .0330) improved throughout the study period. Participants perceived supportive texts as reinforcing trust between peer coaches, use of coping strategies, increasing social connection, and providing accountability for improving self-care. Peer coaches and older adults needed technology support for participation in the study. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated the feasibility and acceptability of a peer support intervention enhanced by video chats and texts, delivered by older adult peer coaches to an ethnically diverse group of older adults with depression. Study findings indicate that ongoing and accessible technology support contributed to older adult participation and engagement.