Effect of a Self-care Intervention on Depression in People With Age-related Macular Degeneration or Diabetic Retinopathy

Effect of a Self-care Intervention on Depression in People With Age-related Macular Degeneration or Diabetic Retinopathy

The purpose of this trial is to determine the short-term effect of a self-care intervention on depression in patients with age-related macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• clinical diagnosis of wet or dry AMD or diabetic retinopathy
• age 50 years and older
• at least mild depressive symptoms (a score of 5 or more on the PHQ-9)
• no legal blindness (visual acuity better than 20/200 in better eye).

Exclusion Criteria:

• the current use of cognitive behavioural therapy
• suicidal intent
• ocular surgery during the study period (intravitreal anti-VEGF injections will be allowed, e.g. Lucentis)
• cognitive impairment
• inability to speak and understand French or English
• profound hearing impairment.