Evidence-Based TreatmentLeveraging Adult Protective Service Interaction to Offer Evidence-Based Treatment for Depression in Elder Neglect/Self Neglect

APS agencies conduct in-home investigations of alleged abuse and neglect against disabled and older adults. Investigations result in short-term stop-gap measures, primarily brief case-management centering on referral linkage to community-based services and provision of resource allocation. No direct psychological services or treatments are provided by APS, however referral to other services is also standard.

Participants will be will be guided through 8 one-hour sessions via home telehealth by the study community health worker. Each weekly < 60 minute BA session will include modules focusing on 1) Psychoeducation for depression and techniques for self-management, including pharmacologic and psychosocial treatment options; 2) Introduction of BA and guided problem-solving techniques to enhance self efficacy for managing depression and other chronic illnesses; 3) BA and problem-solving techniques to support medication management and adherence strategies; 4) BA to develop strategies and techniques for communicating with health providers and/or support resources to foster positive mood and self management; and 5) Developing a relapse prevention plan, which includes identifying triggers for lower functioning, support resources, and practice of BA techniques.