Brief internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety in older adults: A feasibility trial

This study examined the efficacy of an Internet-delivered cognitive-behavior therapy program developed for older adults. Twenty-two participants with elevated scores (≥8) on the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Item Scale (GAD-7) participated in the course, which consisted of five lessons, homework tasks, additional resources, a moderated discussion forum, and weekly telephone support from a Clinical Psychologist. Ninety-five percent of the sample met diagnostic criteria for an anxiety disorder at pre-treatment. All participants completed the five lessons within the allotted eight weeks. Three-month follow-up data was collected from 95% of participants. Reductions in symptoms of anxiety and stress, with large within-group effect sizes (Cohen's d) were found on the GAD-7 (d = 1.03) and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scales – 21 Items (d = 0.98) at follow-up. Participants reported high levels of satisfaction with the program. These encouraging results provide tentative support for the online treatment of older adults with anxiety.

► We evaluate the efficacy of an online treatment program for anxious older adults. ► Twenty-two participants completed the lessons within the 8 week program. ► Participants improved significantly on the primary outcome measures. ► Participants rated the procedure as highly acceptable. ► Only 78 min of therapist time per participant was required over 8 weeks.