Can a function-based therapy for spousally bereaved seniors accrue benefits in both functional and emotional domains?

Late-life spousal bereavement has detrimental effects in daily functioning and emotional distress. This study tested the hypothesis that a therapy based exclusively upon functioning issues (sleep and daily lifestyle regularity) would accrue benefits in both functional and emotional domains. A comparison was made with a control therapy that concentrated on emotional issues, and specifically avoided discussing sleep or lifestyle regularity. Thirty-eight spousally bereaved seniors were randomly assigned to either functional or control therapy. Assessments were made before, during, and after a 6-month, 10-session individual therapy. The functional therapy assisted in both functional and emotional domains and the hypothesis was confirmed.

RCT Entities:   Population Interventions Outcomes