Kingstone T, et al. – This qualitative study aimed to investigate the views of older people and third sector workers about anxiety and depression among older people in order to refine an intervention to be delivered by third sector workers. Findings revealed that the experience of loss was seen as central to feelings of anxiety and depression among community–dwelling older people. The findings have important implications for the proposed feasibility study, training of the third sector workers delivering the intervention and clinical practice.

Methods

• Semi-structured interviews with members enlisted through purposive sampling from third sector groups in North Staffordshire.
• Using principles of constant comparison, interviews were digitally recorded with consent, transcribed and analysed.

Results

• 19 older people and 9 third sector workers were interviewed.
• Key themes incorporated: multiple forms of loss, mental health as a personal burden to bear, having courage and providing/receiving encouragement, self-worth and the value of group activities, and tensions in existing service provision, including barriers and gaps.