Beyond Ageing Project

The Beyond Ageing Project aims to determine whether mental health literacy, physical activity or folate prevents depression in older individuals. The Beyond Ageing project is a randomised controlled trial which commenced in 2006 and will be complete in 2008.

Efforts to prevent depression have largely focused on young people. Given that first episodes of depression often occur in adolescence or early adulthood, this emphasis is justified. However, depression occurs also later in life. For older people, there are certain risk factors, which may make individuals more vulnerable to depression. These risk factors may require preventive action.

The primary aim of the study is to determine what works in terms of preventing older individuals from developing serious problems with depression on a large population scale. The study will incorporate a healthy ageing program and include components such as: folate and vitamin B12; physical activity; information about depression; information on healthy eating, and information on arthritis and pain management.

Approximately 800 participants aged 60-74 are enrolled in the trial. They come from two capital cities (i.e., Canberra and Sydney), and Wagga Wagga as the rural site.   The project has just completed its 12 month follow-up. 

For more information please visit the Beyond Ageing Project webpage.

ARU staff working on the Beyond Ageing Project

• Professor Helen Christensen
• Dr Janine Walker