PEARLS (Program to Encourage Active Rewarding Lives)

PEARLS was developed at the University of Washington Health Promotion Research Center and is delivered locally by AAAs, Sound Generations, and other community partners. A trained PEARLS counselor visits the participant in their home (or by telehealth) for six to eight sessions over four to five months. The counselor uses problem-solving therapy, behavioral activation, and pleasant-event scheduling to help the participant work through depression. Studies show PEARLS reduces depression symptoms in older adults more than usual care.