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

ObjectivesTo 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.MethodsThis 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.ResultsIntervention 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.ConclusionsThe 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 implicationsThis study indicates the feasibility of videoconference CBT to address anxiety experienced by people living with cognitive impairment with minimal assistance from support persons.