Cognitive behavioural psychotherapy: a comparison between younger and older adults in two inner city mental health teams

There is little evidence about the efficacy of Cognitive Behavioural Therap y (CBT) in the older adult population. Research highlights that the preferr ed treatment for this group appears to be medication. This study compares a n older adult mental health service with a younger adult service in terms o f range of referrals, outcomes, attendance rates and length of time in ther apy. The range of disorders referred was a wide mix of anxiety disorders an d depression. There were no significant differences in therapy outcomes apa rt from home adjustment measures where older adults showed greater improvem ent. Younger adults showed significantly higher rates of non-attendance (DN A) and had higher dropout rates. Possible reasons for this are discussed. C BT appeared effective in both age groups, however older adults were treated more quickly due to a higher attendance rate.