A Transdiagnostic Group Intervention for Managing Depression and Anxiety in Older Adults: A Prospective Single-Arm Pre–Post and Follow- UP Study
OBJECTIVES: This study explored the preliminary efficacy and feasibility of a transdiagnostic group intervention integrating the Unified Protocol (UP) and Process-Based Therapy (PBT) for older adults with comorbid depression and anxiety. METHODS: = 32). RESULTS: < .001) were observed across all measures. Effect sizes were substantial: depression reached 2.67 (post-treatment) and 2.03 (follow-up). Quality of life increased from 1.79 to 2.39. While these results are promising, the lack of a control group limits causal inferences. CONCLUSIONS: The 10-week transdiagnostic group intervention integrates UP and PBT, providing a culturally adaptable framework for late-life emotional disorders. While large observed effects were noted for depression (d_z = 2.67) and quality of life (d_z = 2.39), strict caution is required due to the single-arm design. Results warrant further evaluation through randomized controlled trial. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: This culturally adapted, time-limited group framework offers a scalable, resource-efficient model for comorbid older adults. It enhances treatment accessibility, fosters resilience, and reduces healthcare burden.
Authors
- Moustafa Yacoub
Institutions
- Arab Studies and Research Institute (EG)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Clinical Gerontologist
- Published
- 2026-05-22
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1080/07317115.2026.2679577
- Primary Topic
- Mental Health Treatment and Access
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00