Declan Lyons (Editor)
Consultant Psychiatrist in Mental Health of Later Life, St. Patrick’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland

Series: Psychiatry – Theory, Applications and Treatments
BISAC: MED105000

The Evergreen Programme is a group-based therapeutic programme for older adults with acute mental illness which has been in place since 2003 at St. Patrick’s University Hospital, Dublin. The Evergreen Guide is compiled by members of the multidisciplinary team, from a diverse range of disciplines, who deliver this programme in an inpatient unit of the largest mental health facility in Ireland. This publication reflects the broad range of topics and material which form the basis of the 6-week rotational programme.

The Evergreen Programme was designed to be an interactive group programme for older people with a range of psychological conditions that could bridge the gap between diversional activities and psychotherapy. We believe that this book will be of particular interest to health professionals who deliver group-based therapy to older people and will also be a resource for long-term care facilities, as well as community-based active retirement groups and day hospitals, and other acute inpatient facilities.

The book reflects a holistic approach to the treatment and rehabilitation of older people recovering from acute mental illness. The considerable experience that the Evergreen team has accumulated over the last decade is reflected in the objective of this publication (which is also the principal goal of the Evergreen Programme) which is to optimize the health and functioning of older people by encouraging them to retain their resilience and independence on the pathway to recovery. The theme of the Evergreen Guide is, therefore, steadfastly that of positive or successful aging, in spite of the presence of physical or mental ill-health, with emphasis also on recovery and on the restoration of function as a launching pad for the attainment of a level of productivity and engagement necessary to render one’s later years fulfilling and complete.

The chapters are presented in a format that prompts discussion and participation through the use of reflective questions at the start of each chapter, followed by six, discrete weekly ‘modules’ reflecting the present organization and operation of the Evergreen Programme. Clinicians can pick up this guide and begin to use it immediately, as a manual or road map in a group setting, for imparting the practical principles and strategies needed by older people to maximize their physical, mental and creative abilities. Key learning points at the end of each chapter reinforce the relevant knowledge and insights to be attained by participants by the end of each session.

The breadth of topics covered is diverse ranging from successful aging, to spirituality, to the safe use of medication. All of the material is written by the team of clinicians who have considerable individual skill and knowledge, not only in relation to the theoretical material, but also in respect of the optimal methods and manner for imparting this information to groups of older people. Mental health professionals will appreciate this practical and detailed guide which will increase their effectiveness, relevance and competence in working with older people. (Imprint: Nova)