Mental health support for people over 65 is improving through a review of our Stepped Care for Older Adults (SCOA) program.
This free program is tailored to support older adults with mild to moderate mental illness or those at risk of social isolation and loneliness.
The evaluation spoke with clients, referrers, and staff through focus groups, online surveys, consumer interviews, and group discussions to gather detailed feedback.
This feedback will help improve services, strengthen mental health support, and enhance social connections by incorporating insights from multiple perspectives.
Key findings included:
- Consumer input: Five participants shared their experiences in interviews, with interpreters or companions as needed.
- Referrer feedback: Referrers contributed through surveys and meetings, addressing updates in aged care services.
- Staff insights: SCOA staff explored challenges and opportunities through interviews and surveys.
The final evaluation report will guide us in refining the Stepped Care for Older Adults program to better meet the needs of older adults, reduce isolation, and improve wellbeing.
The evaluation is being led by North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network and facilitated by Larter Consulting.
The SCOA program has now ended. See Mental Health services for support offered.
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