Computerised cognitive-behaviour therapy (cCBT) and older people: A pilot study to determine factors that influence willingness to engage with cCBT

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to explore whether older people with depression and/or anxiety were potentially willing to engage with computerised cognitive-behaviour therapy (cCBT). Method: A short questionnaire was sent to 60 service users aged 65+ who were identified as having anxiety and/or depression. Results: There was a 63.3% response rate for the questionnaire. Almost half of the respondents said they would be interested in using cCBT, and would be willing to learn the necessary computer skills. Conclusions: This pilot study suggests that older people with anxiety and/or depression may be willing to engage with cCBT. However, a number of important factors are highlighted that would need to be considered in deciding whether to develop access to cCBT for older people.

Keywords:

• Anxiety
• computerised cognitive behaviour therapy
• cCBT
• depression
• older people
• patient choice