Paul Green presents a study of the benefits of behavioural activation, which can be delivered by appropriately trained non-therapists

As a treatment for depression, behavioural activation is as effective as cognitive behaviour therapy but less complex. Its simplicity and the absence of a cognitive component mean that it may be more suitable for older adults. However, existing reviews of the evidence are meta-analyses of randomised controlled trials, which tend to exclude subjects who are medically frail, cognitively impaired or have comorbid mental health problems. Eleven studies were examined to determine whether behaviourally focused treatments are suitable for older adults, including members of these client groups. The evidence suggests that behavioural activation that is delivered by non-therapists who are trained in the intervention can reduce depressive symptoms in older adults with comorbid medical problems. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.