Depression Training in an Assisted Living Facility: A Pilot Study

Depression in older adults residing in assisted living facilities (ALFs) is often not recognized. ALF staff who work with residents on a daily basis are the most likely individuals to recognize residents' depressive symptoms. The purpose of the current pilot study was to determine feasibility of a 4-week training program for 15 direct care staff to recognize any depression symptoms of 32 residents. Although training significantly improved knowledge, it did not improve staff recognition of residents with positive depressive symptoms. Staff reported the training provided them a better understanding about depression and rated the training as very helpful to be able to recognize depression symptoms. Staff requested more information on ways to respond to someone who is depressed. Additional training should emphasize staff-resident communication skills for staff. Challenges included resident attrition and dwindling staff participation. Strategies to address these challenges are presented. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 54(5), 25-31.].