Cognitive-behavioral treatment for depressed patients with Alzheimer's disease. An open trial

Depression has a high prevalence among patients with Alzheimer's disease, and it has a significant negative impact on their functioning. However, despite its significant impact and challenge, few treatment outcomes data are available to guide clinical care of depression among this population. We developed a cognitive-behavioral intervention to persons with AD. In this paper, we describe the intervention and results of an open trial evaluating its feasibility and utility.

Dementia Unit.

Alzheimer's disease patients.

The treatment was administered over a period of three months with the implication of a caregiver. Dyads were followed for an additional three months in-person sessions. A selection of skills is offered, including education and self-awareness, coping self-statements, behavioral activation, problem-solving therapy, exercise, and caregiver education.

Nine participants were enrolled. Overall, patients and caregivers were satisfied with the treatment and reported that they benefited-in terms of depression, anxiety, and caregiver distress.

These findings are preliminaries and attention now needs to be turned to futher evaluation in a randomized clinical trial.