Telehelp/Telecheck
What is it?
It is a primary prevention service for the elderly in the Veneto region of Italy. Telehelp is an alarm system that is activated for assistance. Telecheck involves contacting clients twice a week to assess their needs and offer emotional support.
Does it work?
Yes. Those who used telecheck for at least six months required fewer GP home visits, fewer hospitalisations and improved mood scores compared with those on the waiting list or newly enrolled in the service.
Only one suicide occurred over 4 years in 12,135 elderly patients (mean age 79) compared with an expected number of 7.44. 1 This was a group which had suicide risk factors such as low income, isolation and potential loss of autonomy.
How does it work?
This is not known.
References
- Bharucha AJ, Satlin A. Late-life suicide: a review. Harv Rev Psychiatry 1997;5:55-65. External Link