Telehealth Cognitive Behavior Therapy to Reduce Anxiety in People Living with Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized Feasibility Pilot Study

OBJECTIVES:To evaluate the feasibility of telehealth-based cognitive behavior therapy for people living with cognitive impairment experiencing anxiety (Tele-CBT), and to assess whether this leads to improvements in anxiety, depression, and quality of life post-intervention. METHODS:This was a single-blind randomized feasibility pilot trial of the Tele-CBT versus usual care. People living with mild cognitive impairment or dementia experiencing anxiety were recruited and randomized to receive Tele-CBT (n = 5) or continue usual care (n = 5). Feasibility data comprised recruitment uptake and retention, adherence, and ease of use. Outcomes of anxiety (primary outcome - Rating Anxiety in Dementia; RAID), depression, stress, and quality of life were measured pre- and post-intervention. RESULTS:Intervention feasibility was demonstrated through minimal attrition, acceptability, and ease of use via videoconferencing. Both groups showed a decrease of anxiety symptoms (RAID) from baseline to post-assessment. CONCLUSIONS:The Tele-CBT program was acceptable to use via videoconferencing. Reduced anxiety symptoms were observed in both groups at post-. An RCT with a larger sample is required to determine the efficacy and implementation of the intervention. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS:This study indicates the feasibility of videoconference CBT to address anxiety experienced by people living with cognitive impairment with minimal assistance from support persons.