Community-Embedded, Layperson-Supported Digital Mental Health Intervention for Homebound Older Adults With Depression: A Type 1 Hybrid Effectiveness- Implementation RCT
University of Michigan
Summary
This study is a randomized Type I hybrid effectiveness-implementation trial aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of Empower@Home, an internet-delivered cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) program supported by aging service providers, in comparison to enhanced usual care for homebound older adults with depressive symptoms. A total of 256 participants will be randomly assigned to either the treatment group (Empower@Home) or the control group (enhanced usual care) in a 1:1 allocation ratio, with randomization stratified by participating agencies. The primary aim of this study is to determine the clinical effectiveness of the Empower@Home program. It is hypothesized that participants receiving Empower@Home will show greater improvements in depressive symptoms at 12, 24, and 36 weeks after entering the study compared to those receiving enhanced usual care. Additionally, treatment moderators will be explored and a cost-effectiveness analysis will be conducted to assess the economic viability of the intervention. The second aim is to investigate the mechanisms of change facilitated by the intervention using a mixed-methods approach. Causal mediation analysis will examine whether the acquisition of CBT skills, reduction in cognitive distortions, and increased behavioral activation, as well as participant engagement and the therapeutic alliance with the coach, mediate the treatment effects. Qualitative interviews with participants will be conducted to provide deeper insights into these mechanisms and enhance the interpretation of the mediation analysis. The third aim focuses on evaluating the implementation process using the updated Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). This will involve a qualitative process evaluation to identify barriers and facilitators to the implementation of Empower@Home, drawing on perspectives from multiple stakeholders.
Description
This study is a randomized Type I hybrid effectiveness-implementation trial designed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness and implementation process of Empower@Home, an internet-delivered cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) program tailored for homebound older adults with depressive symptoms. The trial compares Empower@Home, supported by aging service providers, to an enhanced usual care condition. The study involves 256 participants who will be randomly assigned to either the treatment or control group, with randomization stratified by agency. Rationale: Depression is a significant public h…