Nederland

Researchers are evaluating the cost-effectiveness and impact on anxiety symptoms and quality of life of exposure therapy (ET) delivered by trained mental health nurses (MHNs) in primary care for older adults with anxiety disorders aged 65 and above. Anxiety disorders in older adults are often undiagnosed and undertreated due to factors like ageism, changes in symptoms, and transportation barriers. This study compares ET to usual care (UC), which follows general practitioner guidelines and may include medication or referrals. Participants in the ET group will receive eight therapy sessions over 12 weeks, with the first session lasting 60 minutes and the remaining seven sessions lasting 30 minutes each, all delivered by MHNs in primary care centers. The UC group will receive standard care, which could involve medication, e-learning, psychoeducation, problem-solving therapy, or mental health referrals. The study is conducted as a multi-center cluster-randomized controlled trial with two parallel groups and includes a 1-year follow-up period. During the study, participants will complete questionnaires before treatment, during the 12-week therapy period, and at multiple follow-up points up to 12 months after treatment. Researchers will measure anxiety severity using the Geriatric Anxiety Inventory, quality of life with the EuroQol 5 Dimension 5 Level questionnaire, and societal costs related to psychiatric illness. The study aims to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of MHN-led ET compared to usual care, with no risks expected from participation.