Effects of Group Interventions On Cognition and Depression In Nursing Home Residents

The effects of cognitive-behavioral group therapy, focused visual imagery group therapy, and education-discussion groups on cognition, depression, hopelessness, and dissatisfaction with life were studied among depressed nursing home residents. Seventy-six depressed subjects with mild to moderate cognitive decline participated in nurse-led 24-week protocols. Data were collected 4 weeks before the interventions, 8 and 20 weeks after treatment initiation, and 4 weeks after treatment termination. There were no significant changes in depression, hopelessness, or life satisfaction scores for any of the three conditions. Participants in the cognitive-behavioral and focused visual imagery groups showed a significant improvement beginning 8 weeks after treatment initiation on cognitive scores. These findings are encouraging indications that cognitive-behavioral and focused visual imagery group therapies may reduce cognitive impairment in depressed nursing home residents with mild to moderate cognitive decline.