A novel psychoeducational intervention to promote well-being in older adult nursing home patients: Combining survey preferences with evidence-based practices in the design of a comprehensive curriculum.

Background: Older adults comprise an especially vulnerable population with unique challenges associated with aging. Current mental health interventions for this population focus on different important components of well-being but do not combine them into one curriculum that is widely accessible to those who could benefit. We have chosen 3 pillars (mindfulness, meaning in life, and social connection) and developed a comprehensive curriculum to be shared with others by combining survey preferences from our population sample with evidence-based practices from the literature including positive psychiatry and psychotherapy.

Methods: Long-term care and subacute rehabilitation patients from 2 nursing homes in Atlanta were recruited to participate in a survey. Categorical frequency calculations were used to evaluate participant interest and logistical preferences. Ranked scores and distribution columns were used to evaluate course content.

Results: 100 participants completed the survey. 55.1 % expressed interest in attending this type of course. For class length, frequency, duration, and size, average preference was for 30 min, once a week, 2-4 weeks, and 6-10 people, respectively. Between pillars, preferences in order of priority were: meaning in life (ranked score 215), mindfulness (198), and social connection (157). The subtopics with the highest ranked scores within each pillar were: gratitude for life lived, emotional stability, and increasing opportunities for social connections.

Conclusion: Based on survey results and the literature, we have developed a psychoeducational course to promote well-being in older adult nursing home patients. A curriculum syllabus complete with course description, learning objectives, weekly topics and timelines, materials needed, notes, and handouts is included with the manuscript.