Mentalisation-based treatment for socially isolated older adults with personality disorder
This study is exploring a type of talking therapy, called Mentalisation-Based Treatment (MBT), for people aged 65 and over who experience complex emotional needs (sometimes called personality disorder). While MBT has helped younger adults, it's not known if it suits older people or helps with feelings like loneliness, self-harm, and managing emotions. Researchers want to see if MBT can be adapted for older adults, if they can take part in such a study, and if it could help them feel better emotionally and less lonely. The study also focuses on making it easy for diverse older people to participate by offering flexible appointments and transport.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Around 1 in 15 people aged 65 and over experience what's often called a personality disorder. Because some people find this term unhelpful, this study uses the phrase 'complex emotional needs' (CEN) instead. Older adults with CEN can sometimes feel very low, harm themselves, and use health services quite a lot. This study is looking at a specific talking therapy called Mentalisation-Based Treatment (MBT).
MBT is a talking therapy that helps people understand their own thoughts and feelings, as well as the thoughts and feelings of others. It has been shown to help younger adults with CEN by reducing self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and how often they need to use health services. This study wants to find out if MBT can also help older adults. No one has really looked at this before. The researchers are keen to know if MBT is a good fit for older people, what changes might be needed to make it work better for them, and if it could help reduce feelings of loneliness and improve emotional well-being.
The study is important because older adults with CEN often receive treatments that focus more on their actions than on how they think and feel. This research aims to fill that gap and see if focusing on understanding thoughts and feelings can make a meaningful difference for them. A group of older people with lived experience has helped design this study to make sure it meets their needs and is easy for them to take part in.
Key takeaways
- This study explores a talking therapy (MBT) for older adults (65+) with complex emotional needs.
- It aims to see if MBT is suitable for older people and could help with loneliness and emotional health.
- Participation involves 18 months of therapy and weekly questionnaires.
- The study includes features like flexible appointments and free transport to make it easier to take part.
- A group of older people with lived experience helped design and guide the research.
- It's a pilot study, meaning it's testing if MBT is practical and acceptable for this age group.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for men aged 65 or older who live in Manchester, England. You would need to have been diagnosed with a personality disorder (or have many strong traits of one) by a specialist using a specific assessment called the SCID-5-PD. You also need to be receiving care from a local community mental health team.
There are some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if your main health concerns are about psychosis, dementia, or a serious memory problem. The study is also not for people whose main issues are related to antisocial personality disorder or severe aggressive behaviour. However, if you have a diagnosis of autism, this won't stop you from taking part if you meet all the other requirements.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you a man aged 65 or older?
- Do you live in Manchester, England?
- Have you been diagnosed with a personality disorder or have similar strong traits?
- Are you currently receiving care from a local community mental health team?
- Are your main health concerns NOT psychosis, dementia, or severe memory problems?
- Is severe aggressive behaviour NOT your primary concern?
What does participation involve?
If you join this study, you would take part in Mentalisation-Based Treatment (MBT) therapy for 18 months. MBT usually involves two appointments per week. During this time, you would also be asked to fill out two short questionnaires each week. These questionnaires are important for helping the researchers understand if the treatment is having any positive effects.
The study is designed to make participation as easy as possible. You can expect flexibility around missed appointments, and the team may offer home visits if needed. They will also follow up if you miss an appointment and can provide free transport to ensure you can get to your sessions. The overall study will run from July 2022 to December 2028, but your individual participation in MBT and completing questionnaires would be for 18 months.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation TrustCity onlyManchester, England
Common questions
What does 'complex emotional needs (CEN)' mean?
It's a term used in this study instead of 'personality disorder' which some people find unhelpful. It describes difficulties managing emotions and relationships.
What is Mentalisation-Based Treatment (MBT)?
MBT is a type of talking therapy that helps people understand their own and others' thoughts and feelings, which can improve emotional control and relationships.
How long would I need to take part?
If you join, you would take part in 18 months of MBT therapy and complete weekly questionnaires.
Will I get free transport to my appointments?
Yes, if you need it, the study offers free transport to help you get to your appointments.
Who is funding this research?
The study is funded by the Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust.
How to find out more
Luke Jordan
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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