Compliance with CBT referral in nursing home residents diagnosed with depression: Results from a feasibility study

Patient-level factors that influence compliance with a recommendation for CBT in nursing home residents diagnosed with depression were identified.

Within a cluster-randomized trial on stepped care for depression in nursing homes (DAVOS-study, Trial registration: DRKS00015686), participants received an intake interview administered by a licensed psychotherapist. If psychotherapy was required, patients were offered a referral for CBT. Sociodemographic characteristics, severity of depression, loneliness, physical health, antidepressant medication, prior experience with psychotherapy, and attitudes towards own aging were assessed. A binary regression determined predictors of compliance with referral.

Of 123 residents receiving an intake interview, 80 were recommended a CBT. Forty-seven patients (58.8 %) followed the recommendation. The binary logistic regression model on compliance with recommended CBT was significant, χ²(9) = 21.64, p = .010. Significant predictors were age (Odds Ratio (OR) = 0.9; 95 % Confidence Interval (CI) = 0.82, 0.99; p = .024) and depression (OR = 1.33; 95 % CI = 1.08, 1.65; p = .008).

Within the implemented setting compliance rate was comparable to other age groups. Future interventions should include detailed psychoeducation on the benefits of psychotherapy on mild depressive symptoms in older age and evidence-based interventions to address the stigma of depression. Interventions such as reminiscence-based methods or problem-solving could be useful to increase compliance with referral, especially in very old patients (80+). Language barriers and a culturally sensitive approach should be considered when screening residents.