Care for Elders, as champions of expanding evidence-based programming and the availability of mental health services implemented Healthy IDEAS (Identifying Depression, Empowering Activities for Seniors), an evidence-based program designed to detect depression and reduce the severity of depressive symptoms among community-dwelling older adults. Healthy IDEAS, brings together community service providers, the mental/behavioral health community and healthcare practitioners to achieve significant benefits for older adults and their families.
Healthy IDEAS has been successfully integrated into the case management practice at three local social service agencies, reaching elders with underserved mental health needs, including those at particularly high risk for depression, i.e. Immigrant Hispanic populations and older women of all racial backgrounds living on low income. The program has also been successfully replicated in New Jersey and Ohio; implementation plans have begun in Vermont and Maine.
Formal evaluation of Healthy IDEAS, conducted by Baylor College of Medicine and funded by the Administration on Aging, indicated a significant reduction in symptoms of depression for program participants, reduction in pain, a better ability to recognize and self-manage depressive symptoms, and improved well being through achievement of personal goals. Care for Elders and Baylor College of Medicine manage the dissemination of Healthy IDEAS to potential adopters.
Self-Assessing Readiness for Implementing Healthy IDEAS 
This tool is to assist a community aging service provider and other partnering organizations in determining their readiness to implement Healthy IDEAS. The answers to these questions will help you to recognize what additional commitments, capabilities, resources and partners you might need to progress with plans to implement this proven program.
Addressing Depression in Older Adults: Replication and Technical Assistance Information
Healthy IDEAS is intended to become embedded in the organizationsexisting case management practice or caregiver support program. This document describes the technical assistance provided by Care for Elders.
Healthy IDEAS Replication Report
For more information contact Esther Steinberg, at Esteinberg@shelteringarms.org or 713.685.6579
