What is it about?

This study explores the effects of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT) on elderly individuals affected by an earthquake in North Lombok, Indonesia. Using a Randomized Controlled Trial, TF-CBT was applied, and the results showed significant reductions in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression levels, along with improvements in quality of life. The findings suggest that TF-CBT can effectively alleviate mental health issues in elderly earthquake survivors, highlighting the importance of tailored interventions for this vulnerable population.

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Why is it important?

This research is unique as it is the first to investigate the efficacy of TF-CBT in addressing depression and enhancing quality of life among elderly earthquake survivors in Indonesia. Given the increasing frequency of natural disasters globally, particularly in earthquake-prone regions, understanding effective therapeutic interventions for vulnerable populations like the elderly is crucial. The study's findings offer valuable insights for mental health practitioners and policymakers, informing the development of targeted interventions to support elderly survivors of natural disasters.

Perspectives

As someone invested in mental health research and the well-being of vulnerable populations, this study's findings resonate with me deeply. It underscores the importance of tailored therapeutic approaches, such as TF-CBT, in addressing the unique mental health needs of elderly individuals affected by traumatic events like earthquakes. By highlighting the effectiveness of TF-CBT in reducing PTSD and depression and improving quality of life among elderly earthquake survivors, this research contributes significantly to the field of disaster mental health. I believe that the insights gained from this study can inform future interventions and policies aimed at supporting elderly populations in post-disaster settings, ultimately promoting their mental health and resilience.

Mr Ferry Efendi
Universitas Airlangga

Read the Original

This page is a summary of: Effect of trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy on depression and the quality of life of the elderly in Indonesia, Working with Older People, June 2020, Emerald,
DOI: 10.1108/wwop-02-2020-0004.
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