The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if I-CONNECT (Integrated Care for Older Adults with Major Depression and Physical Multimorbidity) can improve the health and well-being of older adults with depression or bipolar disorder and at least two chronic physical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. It will also study if the care model improves how people experience their care, lowers treatment burden, and how well the program is delivered.
Researchers will compare two groups:
I-CONNECT group: participants receive care coordination, a personalized care plan, medication review, shared decision-making support, and regular follow-up from a care coordinator working with their GP, psychiatrist, pharmacist, and specialists.
Usual care group: participants continue with their normal healthcare from their GP and psychiatrist.
Participants will:
Receive either I-CONNECT or usual care, depending on their group
Complete questionnaires about their mood, quality of life, and care experience
Have their healthcare use (emergency visits and hospitalizations) tracked during the study
Age 65 years or older
Clinical diagnosis of a mood disorder (depression or bipolar disorder)
Currently receiving care from a psychiatrist
At least two chronic physical health conditions
Severe cognitive impairment (e.g., advanced dementia) that prevents participation in assessments or shared decision-making
Inability to provide informed consent
KU Leuven
Lead sponsor
Universitaire Ziekenhuizen KU Leuven
Collaborator