Describes the experience of a group of relatively impaired, institutionalized elderly in a program of volunteer service to their peers. The focus of discussion is upon the volunteer group itself, its weekly group meetings, and the meaning that this kind of group experience has had for its members. (Author)

Investigated the efficacy of bibliotherapy with mildly to moderately depressed older adults (N=29). Observed significant treatment effects with cognitive bibliotherapy superior to the attention control on all measures. Suggests self-help programs may be a viable alternative or adjunct to meeting the mental health needs of the older adult.…

Compared 38 residents in self-help senior residence to 36 in conventional senior residences on Sheltered Care Environment Scale, Self-Esteem Inventory, and Senior Housing Questionnaire. Found that self-help residents scored significantly higher than conventional residents on control, self-esteem, and social involvement. (Author/NB)

Examined relative impact of 3 intrapersonal resources (self-esteem, competencies, and life satisfaction) and duration of self-help group intervention on levels of depression and grief over time among 295 recently widowed adults. Found that, in general, resources examined had greater direct influence on outcomes than did intervention. (Author/NB)

Essential tremor (ET), the most prevalent movement disorder, has a peak prevalence in the sixth decade of life, primarily affecting the hands and head. Persons with ET are often significantly disabled and medical intervention often had limited effectiveness. Describes a biobehavioral rehabilitation model for older adults with ET. (Author/JBJ)

Self-help groups of elderly persons (N=42), who had been blind for several years, met by phone for short-term problem solving and discussion of coping methods. Results indicated task-centered assignments helped the majority meet their goal of decreasing feelings of hopelessness and increasing social activities outside of the home. (Author)

Studied effects of professionally led and peer-led family caregiver groups (N=56) on psychological functioning, informal support networks, and positive personal changes in handling of caregiver role. Found professionally led groups produced greatest psychological functioning improvement and peer-led groups produced greatest increases in informal…

Describes the Canadian government's New Horizons program which sponsors projects begun and run by older adults. Shows how policy can assist the evolution of seniors' activities and can help seniors play active parts in society. Discusses the cost and benefits of such a program. (Author/ABB)