Group Psychotherapy for Late-Life Depression

Abstract

Depression is a common and disabling diagnosis in the elderly. Psychotherapy, both individual and group, has emerged as an important adjunctive treatment for late-life depression along with medications and neurostimulation therapies. This review seeks to summarize recent literature on group psychotherapy for late-life depression, define the type of therapies commonly used, and discuss both the theory and practice of group psychotherapy. Studies show that various group-based psychotherapies are effective for late-life depression, and there is increasing support for an integrated approach. Accommodations must be made to make therapy accessible and useful for the older adult. Our experience leading a geriatric psychotherapy group at University of Connecticut Medical Center is shared with the reader. Recent evidence-based clinical practice guidelines and other measures, published by the American Group Psychotherapy Association to assist the therapist, are briefly described as well. Group psychotherapy, in particular utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy and reminiscence therapy, is an effective intervention for late-life depression.