Effects of cognitive behavioral therapy on depression in institutionalized elderly

Abstract

Numerous studies have shown the high prevalence of depression, figures being even higher in the elderly, especially in institutionalized elderly. Thus finding an effective treatment is essential. This study aims to verify whether the application of cognitive restructuring therapy to depressed institutionalized elderly without cognitive impairment is effective for improving depression and other different variables. A randomized experimental study with two groups (experimental and control) was performed. After applying the therapy, we evaluated the change in the different psychological variables in a sample of 8 depressed institutionalized elderly without neurological damage in the province of Albacete. The results were positive, reducing depression in depressed institutionalized elderly without cognitive impairment, as well as improving the different variables considered.