Predictors of response to the 'Coping with Depression' course for older adults. A field study

This field study explored the prognostic factors of the immediate and long-term effects of the Coping with Depression course for older adults (CWD). With the aim of both indicated as well as secondary prevention, the course is provided by the prevention departments of the community mental health care system in the Netherlands. A total of 317 course participants (age 55-85 years; 69% female) took part in this study; 41% had a major depressive disorder (MDD). A variety of demographic, clinical, psychosocial and treatment factors of possible relevance for indicated and secondary prevention were investigated. Random coefficient regression models and logistic regression models were used to examine their contribution to the immediate and maintenance effect. The course was beneficial for all participants, and the level of depression reached at the end of the course was maintained over the next 14-months. Current MDD, high levels of anxiety, less previous depressive episodes and more education predicted a larger benefit. However, the clinical significance of these predictors was too small to justify further triage. Further treatment should be considered for the participants with a post-treatment score >/=16. Group-membership was not a significant predictor of the variation in effect.