Behavioural activation for an older adult with depression and mild cognitive impairment: a single case study

Abstract Behavioural activation (BA) is recommended for the treatment of depression but most research focuses on working age adults and there is a dearth of literature concerning the delivery of BA with people with co-occurring depression and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This case study outlines a BA intervention with a male in his late 60s with depression and MCI and describes appropriate adaptations that were useful. Treatment consisted of psychoeducation of depression and BA, formulation, activity monitoring and scheduling, tackling self-critical thoughts and rumination, and relapse planning. The 12-session BA treatment resulted in a decrease in both depressive symptoms and psychological distress as well as an increase in the individual’s engagement with meaningful activities. This case study adds to the literature and strengthens the argument for the use of BA in the treatment of depression in older adults with MCI. Adaptations, conclusions and limitations are discussed. Key learning aims (1) To gain an understanding of the use of behavioural activation (BA) in the treatment of depression in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). (2) To illustrate treatment of depression using BA with an older adult utilising the current evidence base. (3) To outline adaptations that can be made to BA to help deliver this treatment with an older adult who has MCI.