Attempted Suicide Short Intervention Program for Older Adults (ASSIP-OA): An Evaluation of a Psychosocial Intervention for Suicidal Adults Aged 65+

Launched by VASTRA GOTALAND REGION · Feb 12, 2025

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ClinConnect Summary

The Attempted Suicide Short Intervention Program for Older Adults (ASSIP-OA) is a clinical trial that aims to help older adults aged 65 and above who are struggling with thoughts of suicide or have attempted suicide. This study will test a specially adapted version of an existing program called ASSIP, which has been successful in reducing the risk of suicide in younger adults. Researchers want to find out if this new version, designed just for older adults, can help lower the chances of serious suicidal behavior and improve coping skills over time.

To participate in the trial, individuals must be 65 years or older, have had a recent suicide attempt or serious suicidal thoughts, and be receiving mental health care. Participants will receive either the new ASSIP-OA program alongside regular treatment or just the standard care. The study will look at how well the program works by checking if it helps reduce suicidal thoughts and behaviors and whether it is acceptable and feasible for older adults. Importantly, the trial is not yet recruiting participants, but it aims to address a significant gap in suicide prevention for older adults.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Age 65 and above at time of index suicide attempt or hospitalisation for serious suicidal plans.
• • 2. A mental health care contact during the active treatment period.
• • 3. Capable of understanding study procedures and providing informed consent.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Clinical diagnosis of dementia or MoCa score less than -2 standard deviations from the normative score for education and age (Borland et al., 2017). Ongoing delirium, or any other condition impeding the comprehension of the study's procedures and implications that hinder the provision of informed consent.
• • 2. Severe ongoing psychosis, severe ongoing substance use disorder, emotionally instable personality syndrome and any other condition that would require longer specialized treatment to reduce future suicidal behaviour (e.g. DBT).
• • 3. Terminal illness.
• • 4. Insufficient knowledge of the Swedish language (requires interpreter).
• • 5. Aphasia or other severe communication issue or severe hearing and/or severe visual impairment that render the intervention unfeasible despite corrective aids.