DOI: 10.5176/2315-4330_WNC14.23
Authors: Rasika S. Jayasekara, Kate Deuter, Nicholas Procter and Sally Hampel
Abstract: Background
Pharmacotherapy is commonly a frontline treatment for depression in the long-term care of older adults, however some people continue to experience adverse effects after therapy has ceased. A growing body of evidence suggests alternative forms of treatment for depression are warranted, though little attention has been given to clinician and consumers’ views and perspectives of treatment. Aim: The purpose of this study was to explore clinician and consumers’ views and perspectives of CBT treatment for older people with depression.
Method
Focus groups (n=1) and individual interviews (n=4) were conducted with mental health professionals (n=6) and older consumers (n=2).
Results
Thematic analysis revealed a range of insights embedded within three major themes: (i) Understanding and experience of CBT; (ii) Challenges and barriers to CBT uptake, and (iii) Delivering CBT – when and by whom?
Discussion
Older people can positively influence their depressive symptoms by changing their behaviour and thought processes through engagement with CBT interventions. CBT is flexible and has the potential to offer longer-term relief of depressive symptoms experienced by older people. Mental health nurses may be uniquely situated to incorporate elements of CBT into their treatment and care of older people with depressive illness.
Keywords: Cognitive behavioral therapy, depression, older adults, focus groups, qualitative interviews
Updating...