Photo Credit: iStock.com/Daisy-Daisy

Researchers found that a sensory-informed suicide prevention program for older adults was well received by staff, helping patients manage anxiety and supporting recovery, despite some implementation challenges.

A study published in the June 2025 issue of BMC Psychiatry explored a modified suicide prevention program tailored for older adults (OAs) (65+) using flexible delivery and sensory-informed strategies to enhance recovery after a suicide attempt.  

Researchers conducted a retrospective study to examine staff and manager perspectives on implementing a group-based sensory modulation intervention in mental health outpatient services in Southern Sweden.  

They carried out a mixed-method implementation process evaluation across 8 outpatient units, which also served as study sites for a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) [NCT06432114] assessing the sensory modulation intervention. Quantitative data were examined using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were explored through both deductive and inductive content analysis.  

The results showed the sensory modulation intervention was well received by mental health staff, with high delivery and uptake rates. The approach was generally aligned with the needs of the intended population. Reflections from managers and staff indicated that service users felt more equipped to manage anxiety in daily life through newly learned sensory strategies. Staff reports gaining a valuable new perspective for clinical use, described as “sensory glasses.” Reflections also emphasized the necessity for a tailored manual for individuals with cognitive challenges and additional staff training.  

Investigators concluded that implementing a recovery-oriented sensory modulation intervention in mental health outpatient settings was largely successful, though some contextual and delivery-related challenges were encountered. 

Source: bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12888-025-07034-5