Objective:

To evaluate the comparative efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions for depression and anxiety in adults aged 55 years and older.

Approach:

Key Findings:

• Dance ranked highest for depression efficacy (SUCRA = 98.5%) and was superior to CBT, ICBT, waitlist, and usual care.
• Resistance training (SUCRA = 67.5%) and CBT (SUCRA = 65.6%) followed in efficacy for depression.
• For anxiety, music (SUCRA = 78.9%) and Tai Chi (SUCRA = 77.1%) ranked highest, with Tai Chi and CBT showing significant advantages over waitlist.
• MBSR showed limited efficacy across both outcomes, while outdoor walking was among the least effective for depression.

Interpretation:

Dance and music/Tai Chi demonstrated the highest probabilities of efficacy for depression and anxiety, respectively, highlighting the need for a personalized, stepped-care approach due to study heterogeneity.

Limitations:

• Heterogeneity across studies may affect the interpretation of SUCRA rankings, potentially leading to misleading conclusions.
• Limited effectiveness of MBSR and outdoor walking may not generalize across all populations.

Conclusion:

The study provides a nuanced framework for guiding personalized mental health care strategies in older adults, emphasizing the efficacy of specific non-pharmacological interventions.

Sources:

• Systematic Review Registration
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