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The effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy on loneliness among older adults: A systematic review and

Taiyuan Luan1, Yue Wang1, Bing Li2

  • 1The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin, China.

Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics
|October 16, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) significantly reduces loneliness in older adults. However, results varied, suggesting intervention format, duration, and setting influence effectiveness, necessitating further research.

Area of Science:

  • Gerontology
  • Psychiatry
  • Mental Health

Background:

  • Loneliness is a prevalent issue among older adults, impacting overall well-being.
  • Effective interventions are crucial to mitigate the negative consequences of social isolation in this demographic.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review and meta-analyze the efficacy of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for reducing loneliness in older adults.
  • To explore factors influencing CBT effectiveness in this population.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic search of 10 electronic databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving adults aged 60+.
  • Independent screening, data extraction, and quality assessment by two reviewers.
  • Meta-analysis using Stata v18.0.

Main Results:

  • Eight RCTs with 720 participants were included, showing a significant large effect of CBT on reducing loneliness (SMD = -1.00).
  • Substantial heterogeneity (I² = 90.5%) was noted, with potential benefits from shorter durations (≤12 weeks), group formats, and online delivery.
  • CBT was effective in community-dwelling but not institution-dwelling older adults.

Conclusions:

  • CBT shows promise in improving loneliness among older adults.
  • Findings on intervention characteristics (format, duration, delivery, setting) are exploratory due to heterogeneity.
  • Further high-quality RCTs are required to confirm these findings and optimize CBT interventions.
Keywords:
Cognitive Behavioral TherapyLonelinessMeta-analysisOlder AdultsSystematic review

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