Using cognitive behavioural therapy for anxiety in older adults

Compared with minimal management, CBT may be more effective in reducing anxiety severity and the symptoms of worry and depression immediately after treatment. However, the lessening in anxiety severity may not be sustained, and at six months, there may be little or no difference between treatments.

There was not enough evidence to determine the effects of CBT on clinical recovery/improvement or whether CBT is more effective than other psychological therapies.

The results from this review suggest that the treatment of older adults with anxiety disorders can follow the clinical guidance for younger adults, while acknowledging circumstances and issues more common among older adults, such as hearing or vision problems and other physical comorbidities.