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Randomized Controlled Trial
. 2015 Jan;70(1):13-23.
doi: 10.1093/geronb/gbu026. Epub 2014 Apr 1.

BE-ACTIV for depression in nursing homes: primary outcomes of a randomized clinical trial

Suzanne Meeks  1 , Kimberly Van Haitsma  2 , Ben Schoenbachler  3 , Stephen W Looney  4
Affiliations
Randomized Controlled Trial

BE-ACTIV for depression in nursing homes: primary outcomes of a randomized clinical trial

Suzanne Meeks et al. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci. 2015 Jan.

Abstract

Objectives: To report the primary outcomes of a cluster randomized clinical trial of Behavioral Activities Intervention (BE-ACTIV), a behavioral intervention for depression in nursing homes.

Method: Twenty-three nursing homes randomized to BE-ACTIV or treatment as usual (TAU); 82 depressed long-term care residents recruited from these nursing homes. BE-ACTIV participants received 10 weeks of individual therapy after a 2-week baseline. TAU participants received weekly research visits. Follow-up assessments occurred at 3- and 6-month posttreatment.

Results: BE-ACTIV group participants showed better diagnostic recovery at posttreatment in intent-to-treat analyses adjusted for clustering. They were more likely to be remitted than TAU participants at posttreatment and at 3-month posttreatment but not at 6 months. Self-reported depressive symptoms and functioning improved in both groups, but there were no significant treatment by time interactions in these variables.

Discussion: BE-ACTIV was superior to TAU in moving residents to full remission from depression. The treatment was well received by nursing home staff and accepted by residents. A large proportion of participants remained symptomatic at posttreatment, despite taking one or more antidepressants. The results illustrate the potential power of an attentional intervention to improve self-reported mood and functioning, but also the difficulties related to both studying and implementing effective treatments in nursing homes.

Keywords: Clinical trial.; Depression; Intervention; Nursing homes.

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Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
CONSORT diagram.
Figure 2.
Figure 2.
Intent-to-treat diagnostic recovery results for 3- and 6-month posttreatment.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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