A Self-Guided Cognitive Behavioral Therapy App for Middle-Aged and Older Adults With Anxiety or Depression: Pilot Feasibility, Acceptability, and Symptom Reduction.

OBJECTIVES

This pilot study evaluated acceptability, feasibility, and symptom reduction with Maya-a cognitive behavioral therapy app adapted for middle-aged and older adults-and identified themes in qualitative feedback.

METHODS

Participants were 10 adults aged 44-75 with depressive or anxiety disorders who received a 6-week (12-session) program of Maya. Outcomes were measured at baseline and weeks 3, 6, and 12.

RESULTS

Acceptability (User Version of the Mobile Application Rating Scale) exceeded four out of five, indicating good acceptability, at all time points. Participants completed M = 7.00 (58.3%) of 12 sessions by week 6 (end of intervention). Clinically meaningful decreases in depression (Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale) and anxiety (Hamilton Anxiety Scale) were observed in 57% and 71% of participants, respectively, who completed the week 6 assessment.

CONCLUSIONS

These results provide preliminary evidence that the Maya app is acceptable and feasible in middle aged and older adults. Next steps include an adequately powered randomized controlled trial.