An Evaluation Report from the Field:
Evaluation Proves Striking Results
for Program to Improve Depression
in Homebound Seniors
Stellar Outcomes Prompt Piper Trust to Look for Ways
to Expand Program
Medically homebound seniors deal with loss as an everyday reality, from the loss of physical functioning, mobility and independence to fewer daily interactions and less social support. It’s not surprising that many become depressed and isolated, leading to an even greater downward spiral. Suicide rates are significantly elevated among this population.
Community C.A.R.E. Connections, Inc., a nonprofit providing goods and services to highly vulnerable and disadvantaged populations living in Maricopa County, approached the Trust in the fall of 2001 to fund an innovative program called TASH (Technical Assistance for Seniors Homebound) to assist medically homebound seniors. Their plan was to place computers in the homes of these clients, train them to use the computers through a structured curriculum, provide ongoing training and support, and supply an Internet connection, all at no expense to the clients. The intent was not only to allow these clients to keep in contact with their families through e-mail, but also to create a virtual community among program participants.
Launched in February 2002, TASH provided computers, training and Internet connections to 100 clients. Dr. Wayne Parker, the Trust’s director of research and evaluation, worked with Community C.A.R.E. Connections to incorporate an evaluation component into the program. Upon acceptance to the program, each client was administered a geriatric depression scale, and one year after enrollment the measure was repeated.
“We found that the results were striking,” Parker explained, noting that 60 percent of participants were clinically depressed or showed less serious but real levels of depression when they started the program. After one year, that number had decreased to 15 percent. “The program proved to be more effective for improving depression in this population than results typically achieved through anti-depression medication,” he added.
The intervention was so effective that the Trust provided two additional grants to Community C.A.R.E. Connections while the agency attempted to make the program self-sustaining. Unfortunately, financial difficulties caused the organization to close recently, but Trust staff worked to identify an appropriate organization to continue the project, and in June 2006, the Beatitudes Center D.O.A.R., Inc. was awarded a grant to continue the existing program and explore opportunities for expansion.
“We’re continually looking for programs that have a measurable impact on improving people’s lives,” Parker said. “Too often, nonprofits determine a program’s success based on simple measures like numbers served and anecdotal accounts from a handful of participants. While this information can prove helpful, it doesn’t prove that the program is achieving the desired results.”