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[Insufficient consideration for anxiety disorders in the elderly]
Christina M van der Feltz-Cornelis1, Harm W J van Marwijk, A J L M Ton van Balkom
1Trimbos-instituut, afd. Diagnostiek en Behandeling, Utrecht, The Netherlands. cfeltz@trimbos.nl
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|October 28, 2009
Summary
Cognitive behavioural therapy in primary care reduced anxiety symptoms in the elderly. However, it did not improve generalized anxiety disorder severity or decrease medication use, suggesting a need for integrated care models.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Psychiatry
- Primary Care Medicine
Background:
- Anxiety disorders are prevalent in elderly patients seeking primary care.
- There is a need for effective, accessible anxiety treatments within primary care settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for anxiety disorders in the elderly within a primary care setting.
- To assess the impact of CBT on worry, depressive symptoms, general health symptoms, generalized anxiety disorder severity, and medication use.
Main Methods:
- A randomized clinical trial involving 7 sessions of CBT delivered by experienced therapists in primary care.
- The study specifically focused on the Dutch primary care context.
Main Results:
- CBT significantly reduced worry, depressive symptoms, and general health symptoms.
- No significant improvement was observed in the severity of generalized anxiety disorder.
- Medication use, including benzodiazepines, did not decrease during the intervention period.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive behavioural therapy shows promise for alleviating some anxiety-related symptoms in the elderly within primary care.
- Implementation requires organizational support and integration with strategies to reduce benzodiazepine dependence.
- A collaborative care model tailored for elderly anxiety patients is recommended for Dutch primary care settings.
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