In response to the ongoing challenges of social isolation, loneliness, and mental health issues among older adults in Canada, the University of Manitoba (UM) is planning to expand its successful CONNECT Program nationally. Dr. Kristin Reynolds, Director of the UM Health Information Exchange Lab, has received the Canadian Institute of Health Research (CIHR) Aging Prize for her efforts in this initiative.
The CONNECT Program was launched in Manitoba in 2020 as a collaboration between Dr. Reynolds, A&O: Support Services for Older Adults, and various UM departments. It offers accessible and evidence-based group psychotherapy via telephone to support adults aged 65 and older who are experiencing loneliness, anxiety, and depression.
With CIHR’s support, Dr. Reynolds plans to expand the program by adding a virtual component and establishing partnerships with service delivery organizations across Canada. The program’s expansion will include Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Ontario, and British Columbia.
Dr. Reynolds, a Clinical Psychologist and associate professor at UM, aims to address the mental health needs of older adults, highlighting the relationship between loneliness and mental health and the consequences of untreated mental health issues. Her work underscores the importance of community initiatives in supporting mental health and integrating mental health services into the community.
The Health Information Exchange Lab, led by Dr. Reynolds, focuses on understanding the unique health-related needs of different population groups and developing resources and services to meet those needs. The lab involves undergraduate and graduate students from psychology and related disciplines.
Dr. Reynolds and her team have found that the rate of mental health service utilization among older adults remains low, despite the prevalence of these issues. The CONNECT Program aims to identify and overcome barriers to service utilization, providing accessible and anonymous support through telephone-based group therapy.
Dr. Reynolds’ lab has also developed an online self-directed cognitive behavioral therapy program called “Overcoming Perinatal Anxiety” for pregnant and postpartum individuals, further addressing specific mental health needs.
The expansion of the CONNECT Program is seen as a significant step in supporting the mental well-being of older adults across Canada, addressing a critical public health concern and promoting community-based mental health services.
The CIHR Aging Prize recognizes Dr. Reynolds’ dedication to improving mental health services for older adults and her commitment to research in this field.
