Existential and Solution-Focused Group Intervention for Older Adults

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an integrated existential and solution-focused group intervention enriched with narrative therapy techniques in promoting active aging among older adults. The intervention was developed to address psychosocial limitations associated with aging, including social isolation, role loss, ageism, and existential concerns. The study employed an embedded mixed-methods randomized controlled design. Older adults aged 65 years and over who attended a primary healthcare mental health unit in a city, Türkiye, were randomly assigned to either an intervention group or a control group. Participants in the intervention group received a structured 10-session group program combining existential therapy, solution-focused approaches, and narrative therapy techniques. Quantitative data were collected using the World Health Organization Quality of Life-Old Module (WHOQOL-OLD) and the Active Aging Scale (AAS) at baseline, post-intervention, and three-month follow-up. Qualitative data were obtained through session transcripts and field notes to explore participants' experiences and the intervention process.

Inclusion Criteria: Aged 65 years or older. Registered at the mental health unit of the participating primary healthcare center. Able to communicate effectively and participate in group sessions. Sufficient cognitive functioning to complete interviews and study assessments. Willing to participate voluntarily and provide written informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: Presence of severe psychiatric disorders that could interfere with participation in the group intervention. Presence of neurological disorders associated with significant cognitive impairment. Severe physical health problems preventing attendance at group sessions. Inability or unwillingness to complete the intervention or study assessments.