Bilzen Hoeselt

Researchers are evaluating the effect of a music and video-based group exercise therapy on motivation, physical functioning, cognition, and well-being in older adults with moderate dementia. This study focuses on individuals aged 65 years or older living in nursing homes who have moderate dementia, aiming to assess how this creative approach to exercise impacts various aspects of their health and daily functioning. Participants will take part in group exercise sessions that last up to 45 minutes each, conducted twice a week for four months. These sessions incorporate music and video elements to engage participants during the exercises. The therapy is designed to be supportive and accessible even for those who require supervision while standing. Throughout the study, researchers will measure changes in motivation using the observed emotion rating scale at monthly intervals, and muscle strength will be assessed at the beginning, midpoint, and end of the intervention using a timed chair stand test and hand-held dynamometer. Compliance, adherence, and attrition rates will be tracked regularly during the four-month intervention period to understand participant engagement and therapy effects.

This research investigates the Suicidal Crisis Intervention (SCI), a new short-term treatment designed to reduce suicidality in people who have experienced a suicide attempt or suicidal crisis. The study also aims to explore the effect of SCI on related factors such as hopelessness, defeat, entrapment, and interpersonal needs. The SCI was developed in Flanders to address the lack of specific evidence-based short-term treatments for this high-risk group. The SCI consists of four structured sessions that focus on understanding the suicidal crisis by relating it to the person's life history. It seeks to increase motivation for ongoing specialized care and involves the participation of close relatives to strengthen social support. Key elements of the intervention include a safety plan, person-centered care, and continuity of care, all delivered by care providers within a short time frame. Participants will be monitored for changes in suicidality using the Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation at multiple points: 42, 132, and 222 days after randomization. The study includes assessments of related psychological factors and emphasizes the involvement of relatives. Participants must have internet access and be Dutch-speaking. The total duration and detailed follow-up procedures support evaluating both immediate and longer-term effects of the SCI.

Researchers are collecting data in Flanders on how often suicide attempts and suicidal thoughts occur across various healthcare settings like hospitals, psychiatric centers, crisis teams, and general practitioners. The study aims to understand the methods used in suicidal behavior and see how many people receive proper aftercare following a suicide attempt. It uses a detailed tool called the Guideline for Suicide Care and Evaluation (LOES) to gather comprehensive information about individuals with suicidal thoughts or behaviors. The study includes a two-part semi-structured interview conducted by trained healthcare professionals such as nurses, psychologists, and psychiatrists. The first part happens shortly after admission to a healthcare facility following a suicide attempt or suicidal thoughts and collects demographic data, history, social support, hopelessness levels, and current suicidal ideation. The second part explores psychological factors more deeply, including motives, personal and interpersonal problems, and current thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Participants undergo detailed assessments on the first day covering demographics, clinical details, suicidal behavior methods, emotional state, suicidal intent and planning, past self-harm, social support, mental health history, substance use, coping strategies, and care needs. The study tracks participants’ openness to help and care pathways to formulate well-supported risk assessments. This comprehensive evaluation helps understand suicidal processes and needs in the Flanders region.