Program Overview

Ageing Wisely Online Program

The Ageing Wisely Online program is a trial designed to help older adults dealing with anxiety, low mood, and worry.

Program Overview

This program is for older adults (aged 65 years or older) who experience levels of anxiety and/or low mood that are interfering in their lives. Participants must have regular access to a computer or tablet to access the treatment program.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the program, participants must:

• Be 65 years or older
• Experience levels of anxiety and/or low mood that are interfering in their lives
• Have regular access to a computer or tablet
• Be able to understand written and spoken English at a sufficient level

Participants who experience the following conditions are not eligible for the program:

• Psychosis
• Bipolar disorder
• Suicidality
• Significant uncorrected hearing loss
• Stroke
• Severe cognitive impairment

Program Structure

The program involves the following steps:

• A brief 15-minute intake call with a research assistant to assess whether the program is likely to be of benefit
• A 90-minute clinical assessment (via video conference or telephone) to understand more about symptoms and personal circumstances
• Random allocation to one of two treatment options: immediate access to the treatment program or delayed access after six months
• Additional interviews and questionnaires at the end of treatment and three months following the end of treatment

Program Costs

There are no costs for participating in the Ageing Wisely Online trial.

Research Areas

The program is part of the Lifespan Health and Wellbeing research area, focusing on older adults and their health and wellbeing. The program is conducted by Macquarie University, specifically the Lifespan Health and Wellbeing research centre.