Evaluation of a Counselling Service for the Elderly

An evaluation of WellElder, a counselling service for the elderly, was conducted using four years of accumulated client information and counselling outcome data. This information was collated, analysed, and compared with the New Zealand literature and with information from other countries on counselling the elderly. Findings showed that there was considerable similarity between clients using the WellElder service and clients of all ages at other community-based services in New Zealand and abroad. In addition, outcome data demonstrated that the large majority of clients were receiving brief counselling, fewer than six sessions, and that the counselling being offered to clients was effective in meeting their needs. The implications of these findings are discussed in relation to agency policy and development.