Nearly 1 in 5 Americans 65 years old or older experiences symptoms of depression. Often occurring with chronic illness and other losses commonly experienced  later in life, depression can negatively affect older adults’ quality of life and ability to function.  The goal of Healthy IDEAS is to improve the quality of life for older adults.

Healthy IDEAS (Identifying Depression, Empowering Activities for Seniors) is an evidence-based program that integrates depression awareness and management into existing case management services provided to older adults, such as our Senior Outreach and Engagement Program.

Services include:

• Screening for symptoms of depression and assessing their severity
• Educating older adults and caregivers about depression
• Linking older adults to primary care and mental health providers
• Empowering older adults to manage their depression through a behavioral activation approach that encourages involvement in meaningful activities.

Healthy IDEAS is a national model with measurable results and demonstrated benefits for older adults including:

• Fewer symptoms of depression
• Decreased physical pain
• Better ability to recognize and self-treat symptoms
• Improved well-being through achievement of personal goals

To access services or make a referral:

If you would like more information about Healthy IDEAS, please contact United Services at 860-774-2020 or 860-456-2261 and ask to speak with staff from the Healthy IDEAS program.

Case Manager: Lisa Knight

Funding for this program is provided by the Connecticut Department on Aging.