Older bereaved spouses' participation in self-help groups

This study reports on bereaved spouses' assessments of their participation in twenty-six self-help groups which consisted of eight weekly meetings (short-term; N = 82) or ten monthly meetings in addition to the weekly ones (long-term; N = 52). Regardless of the duration of the groups whether they were led by a professional or a widowed peer, assessments were generally positive. The most commonly reported benefit the participants hoped to gain was emotional support. No statistical differences were noted between those in the short- versus long-term condition or between those in the widow- versus professional-led groups regarding perceived helpfulness of the meetings, level of participation, or the extent to which participants' primary needs were filled. Trends, however, seemed to favor those in the long-term groups. Statistically significant correlations were observed between the number of meetings attended and a composite index of perceived value of the meetings. Major recommendations include the importance of making self-help groups that allow for greater involvement over time available for older bereaved adults, and to make use of both professionals and widowed persons as group leaders.