Empowering Wisconsin Faith-Based Groups to Combat Elderly Isolation and Depression

Project Summary:

Depression and social isolation significantly impact Wisconsin's older adult population, with 16% of elderly individuals experiencing clinically significant depressive symptoms and nearly one in four adults aged 65 and older facing social isolation. Despite depression affecting up to 37% of critical care hospitalizations among older adults and leading to 50% higher healthcare costs, only 3% receive treatment from mental health professionals. These issues are especially challenging among racial minorities and low-income seniors who face additional barriers to accessing mental health services.

Project HOPE plans to build partnerships with church-based organizations in Milwaukee to develop strategies for reducing social isolation and depression among vulnerable elderly persons, specifically those aged 65 and above from racial and ethnic minority communities. Through a series of workshops with church leaders and mental health experts, the project will explore perspectives on service provision and identify evidence-based strategies for supporting elderly mental health within faith communities.

This initiative serves as a foundational step toward creating a sustainable, statewide coalition of church-led mental health support services for elderly populations. By leveraging the strong community ties of churches and synthesizing evidence from scoping reviews and expert opinions, the project aims to transform faith-based organizations into centers of mental health advocacy and support. Researchers plan to establish a comprehensive network that reinforces the dignity and well-being of vulnerable elderly individuals while demonstrating the vital role faith-based organizations can play in improving community health outcomes.

Community Partners: Marquette Pastoral Leadership