Who is the programme for?
The Evergreen Programme is designed for adults over the age of 65 who are inpatient service users at SPMHS. The programme is suitable for people experiencing a range of mental health difficulties, including:
- Anxiety
- Cognitive changes, such as changes in memory, associated with aging
- Depression
- Dementia-related symptoms.
What does this programme involve?
The programme focuses on improving the quality of life for older adults experiencing mental health challenges, supporting their independence and overall wellness. It is delivered in a group format, with groups taking place in person.
Some key themes explored include:
- Caring for others, caring for self
- Community mobility and transportation
- Growing older and changing patterns of activity
- Maintaining mental wellbeing
- Maintaining physical wellbeing
- Making the most of your memory
- Safety at home and in the community
- Social relationships and maintaining friendships
- Understanding and managing medications
How long is the programme?
The Evergreen Programme takes place over five weeks. However, this period may be shortened or extended, depending on your individual needs.
Who delivers the programme?
Our Evergreen Programme is provided by the entire Older Adult Service team. This team includes skilled professionals from different fields, such as psychiatry, occupational therapy, social work, psychology, nursing, and pharmacy. They work together to support your unique needs.
The experts manage different groups within the programme. You can find out more about the different groups below.
Psychiatry
The psychiatry groups cover health topics directly related to older adults, focusing on quality of life as a key marker of how you view your health. In these groups, you will learn about issues ranging from physical illness to key emotional needs, and improved mental wellbeing in later life.
Occupational therapy
The occupational therapy group focuses on empowering you to make positive lifestyle changes. You will be supported to change how you approach daily routines and activities to improve your functionality, health, and wellbeing.
Social work
The social work group explores changes to your role and common changes associated with ageing. You will cover topics such as losses in later life, understanding grief, and how to create a strong support system in the group sessions.
Pharmacy
The pharmacy group covers general information about medicines, common medications used in mental health treatments, and how ageing can affect medication treatment. Ways of improving awareness and monitoring medication are explored and advice is given on dealing with common side-effects from medication.
Nursing
The nursing group explores topics around maintaining your mental and physical wellbeing. Topics such as sleep hygiene, maintaining safety, preventing falls, taking medication correctly and setting positive goals are covered in the sessions.
Psychology
The psychology group focuses on exploring changes to your memory and your ability to understand ideas as part of the normal ageing process. Ways to make the most of your mental abilities in later life are explored.
Activity
There are many activity and volunteer groups held as part of the programme, where you can get involved in various activities including pet therapy, chair exercises, tai chi, and computers.
See other programmes for older adults
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Memory Clinic Service