Treating Late-Life Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) in Primary Care

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), National Institutes of Health (NIH), The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Kelsey Research Foundation, Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center

The purpose of this study is to determine whether cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is effective in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults age 60 and older in a primary care setting.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is one of the most common anxiety disorders among older adults. Anxiety in older adults is associated with decreased physical activity, poorer self-perceptions of health, decreased life satisfaction, and increased loneliness. Because many older adults with anxiety seek assistance in a medical setting, treatment has been primarily pharmacological. There is, however, limited evidence of the effectiveness of psychotropic medications. Given the potential difficulties in prescribing psychotropic medications in later life (e.g., increased adverse effects, potential drug interactions), psychosocial treatments may be important alternative or adjuncts. The treatment phase of this study lasts 10 weeks, during which patients will be randomly assigned to either cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) or usual care. Follow-up will last 12 months after treatment completion, during which time patients will complete telephone assessments.

Inclusion Criteria: Clinical diagnosis of Generalized Anxiety Disorder Exclusion Criteria: Active suicidal intent Current psychosis Current bipolar disorder Substance abuse within past month Cognitive impairment

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