Psychological therapies

This research theme focuses on developing, adapting and evaluating psychological interventions for older people with mental health conditions and those living with neurodegenerative conditions

Pharmacological treatments are frequently associated with a higher risk of negative side effects in older people compared to working age people. Therefore, identifying evidence-based non-pharmacological treatments for reducing psychological distress or improving quality of life in older people is crucial.

Our research studies focus on developing and evaluating a range of psychological interventions for older people with mental health conditions and/or neurodegenerative conditions (including dementia, motor neuron disease and Parkinson's disease). An important component of our studies is developing and adapting psychological interventions for the specific psychological, physical and cognitive needs of the population under investigation, in collaboration with Experts by Experience. Doing so ensures that the psychological interventions are as acceptable, feasible and clinically effective as possible.