Comparative effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions on depression and anxiety in aging populations: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials - Report - MDSpire

Comparative effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions on depression and anxiety in aging populations: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

  • By

  • Peifeng Qin

  • Fangbo Li

  • Xuecheng Li

  • Xiaowei Feng

  • June 10, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Efficacy Comparison of Non-Pharmacological Approaches for Depression and Anxiety

Overview

This systematic review and network meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions for depression and anxiety in older adults. Dance and music/Tai Chi emerged as the most effective interventions, while MBSR and outdoor walking showed limited effectiveness.

Background

Depression and anxiety are prevalent among older adults, significantly impacting their quality of life. Non-pharmacological interventions are increasingly recognized as viable alternatives or complements to pharmacological treatments, which may have limited efficacy and side effects in this population. Understanding the comparative effectiveness of these interventions is essential for optimizing mental health management in aging populations.

Data Highlights

InterventionSUCRA (Depression)SUCRA (Anxiety)
Dance98.5%N/A
Resistance Training67.5%N/A
CBT65.6%Statistically significant
MusicN/A78.9%
Tai ChiN/A77.1%
MBSRLimited efficacyLimited efficacy
Outdoor WalkingLeast effectiveN/A

Key Findings

  • Dance ranked highest for depression with a SUCRA of 98.5%.
  • Music and Tai Chi were the most effective for anxiety, with SUCRAs of 78.9% and 77.1%, respectively.
  • Resistance training and CBT also showed notable efficacy for depression.
  • MBSR demonstrated limited effectiveness for both depression and anxiety.
  • Outdoor walking was among the least effective interventions for depression.
  • Statistical significance was noted for Tai Chi and CBT over waitlist controls for anxiety.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should consider incorporating dance and music/Tai Chi into treatment plans for older adults experiencing depression and anxiety. A personalized, stepped-care approach is recommended, taking into account individual preferences and the varying effectiveness of interventions.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the importance of non-pharmacological interventions in managing depression and anxiety among older adults, highlighting the need for tailored approaches in clinical practice.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2026 -- Comparative effects of structured exercise protocols on depression and anxiety symptoms: a network meta-analysis
  2. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2026 -- Comparative efficacy of non-pharmacological therapies in adolescents with subthreshold depression: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
  3. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2026 -- Association of Sleep Quality and Sleep Duration with Anxiety Symptoms in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
  4. BMC Psychiatry (Springer) -- Telehealth Group Therapy Tailored for Age: A Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial on Depression in Older Adults with and without Anxiety Comorbidities (VISION-AGE)
  5. Guidelines for Psychological Practice With Older Adults: Executive summary - PubMed
  6. Psychological treatment of depression in older adults: A network meta-analysis - PubMed
  7. Anxiety - Canadian Coalition for Seniors' Mental Health
  8. Guidelines for Psychological Practice With Older Adults: Executive summary - PubMed
  9. Psychological treatment of depression in older adults: A network meta-analysis - PubMed
  10. Anxiety - Canadian Coalition for Seniors' Mental Health

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