Comparative effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions on depression and anxiety in aging populations: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials - Takeaways - MDSpire
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Efficacy Comparison of Non-Pharmacological Approaches for Depression and Anxiety in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials

  • By

  • Peifeng Qin

  • Fangbo Li

  • Xuecheng Li

  • Xiaowei Feng

  • June 10, 2026

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  • 1

    This systematic review evaluated the efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions for depression and anxiety in older adults aged ≥55 years.

  • 2

    Eighty-three randomized controlled trials involving 6,646 participants were included, assessing 11 different non-pharmacological interventions.

  • 3

    Dance was found to be the most effective intervention for depression, while music and Tai Chi ranked highest for anxiety in older adults.

  • 4

    Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and internet-based CBT (ICBT) showed moderate efficacy, while mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) had limited effectiveness.

  • 5

    The study recommends a personalized, stepped-care approach to mental health management, considering the heterogeneity of intervention efficacy.

Original Source(s)

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

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