Helping older adults cope with disasters through Psychological First Aid

Are Older Adults Prepared to Respond to Disasters? a Randomized Controlled Study Evaluating the Effectiveness of Psychological First Aid on Dignity-Related Distress, Social Frailty, and Psychological Resilience Among Institutionalized Elders

Not applicable Interventional Cairo University · NCT06787703

This study is testing whether Psychological First Aid can help older adults in care facilities cope better with crises and improve their overall well-being.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages60 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorCairo University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Damanhur)
Trial IDNCT06787703 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study focuses on the unique challenges faced by institutionalized older adults, particularly regarding dignity-related distress, social frailty, and psychological resilience. It evaluates the effectiveness of Psychological First Aid (PFA), a structured intervention aimed at providing immediate emotional support and fostering adaptive coping strategies during crises. By applying PFA in the context of daily struggles faced by these individuals, the study seeks to enhance their overall well-being and quality of life. The findings could lead to significant improvements in elder care practices and policies by integrating PFA into standard care protocols.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 60 years or older who have recently retired and can communicate effectively.

Not a fit: Patients currently undergoing psychological treatments or those unable to participate in the study due to logistical challenges may not benefit from this intervention.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the mental health and quality of life for institutionalized older adults.

How similar studies have performed: While PFA has been successfully used in disaster response, its application in everyday elder care is a novel approach that has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged 60 years or older.
* Recently retired, within a maximum of one month from job cessation.
* Capable of meaningful and clear communication.
* Provide signed informed consent to participate.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Participation in psychological treatments
* Inability to complete assigned homework
* Unwillingness to continue studying
* Logistical challenges such as poor internet connectivity during online sessions.

Where this trial is running

Damanhur

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions ElderlyPsychological AdaptationFirst AidStressPsychological StressOlder AdultsDisasterPsychological
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.