What is Empower@Home?
Empower@Home is an online program for emotional well-being and social connection. It’s made specifically for older adults, focusing on their unique needs. Researchers at the University of Michigan developed Empower@Home with input from health care staff and at-home seniors. Research shows that the program is effective in reducing depression among older adults, including those who have very little experience with technology.
Empower@Home has 9 online sessions that users can move through at their own pace. Each session includes a series of short educational videos and interactive exercises. The program is based on a type of therapy called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or CBT.
What is CBT?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on the connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It’s based on the idea that changing what you do and how you think can make you feel healthier and happier. Hundreds of studies show that CBT is effective in treating depression, anxiety, and a range of other conditions. Studies have also shown that CBT is as effective as antidepressants for some people. Empower@Home provides a structured way to learn and practice CBT tools that empower well-being.
Many people face difficulties accessing CBT. Common barriers include cost, transportation, and a shortage of mental health professionals. iCBT, also known as computerized CBT or online CBT, is a valuable alternative. It delivers prerecorded self-learning modules through websites or apps. Users typically go through sequenced lessons at their own pace and practice CBT skills using structured exercises. Research shows that iCBT is effective for treating depression in adults. Our goal is to provide an easy-to-use iCBT program tailored to the needs of older adults.
Our Mission
- Make mental health treatments accessible to all
- Harness the power of technology for social good
- Design treatments tailored for the needs of our client populations
- Produce highly usable mental health self-care products
- Enhance independence and quality of life
Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
- Who is suitable for Empower@Home?
This program is particularly suitable for those who are 60+, have chronic health or mobility problems, and have either indicated depression or are at high risk for depression. Currently, we are working with community social service providers and are not accepting any self-referred individual participants. - Do I need to go somewhere to do the program?
No. Everything is done online. You can do the program anywhere, anytime, and at your own pace. - How long does it take to go through the program?
The program has 9 lessons. Each takes about 20 to 30 minutes. We recommend that you do one lesson a week. It takes about 10 weeks to finish the entire program. - I am not so good with technology. Will that be a problem?
No. Experience with a computer is not required to participate. We have worked with seniors who have never used a computer or tablet. With some help to get started, they had no problem using the program. We will give you a tutorial and help you set up the program. - I don’t have a computer. Can I still participate?
Yes. A tablet (like an iPad) and internet will be provided for free for the duration of the program. - What if I have a problem or a technical question?
We provide technical support during regular working hours 7 days a week. Give us a call, and we will help you troubleshoot. - What if I don’t finish the program in 10 weeks?
That is all right. You will have access to the program for up to one year. - How do I access the program?
You can access the program via a dedicated website. Your username and password will be provided to you when we sign you up. - What device do I need to use the program?
You can do it on a smartphone, a tablet, an iPad, a laptop, or a computer. - Will anyone see what I enter online?
Everything you enter will be confidential. For the most part, your answers to the exercises are private. However, your health care staff and the research team can access your answers to the weekly check-in questions. We do this to protect your safety. - What is the workbook?
Every user will be mailed a workbook. The workbook has many worksheets and session summaries. It gives you an option to do exercises on paper rather than going online. It is yours to keep.
