While digital health technology adoption has consistently been higher amongst younger generations, a new study “The Use of Internet-Enabled Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in the Treatment of Depression and Anxiety amongst Older People” published in the International Journal of Aging and Society, shows how rapidly increasing levels of internet access amongst overs 65s, means that that the number of seniors now receiving online therapy (IECBT) is a significant and growing cohort. The study also found that a greater than expected proportion of patients utilizing IECBT are older men, compared to traditional therapy methods.
Speaking about this study, Sarah Bateup Chief Clinical Officer at Ieso Digital Health and co-author of this study said:
“This is an important study as it shows that digital health is not just for millennials and shows how technology is being embraced by the Baby Boomer generation too. Online therapy offers an opportunity to reach older people who are less likely to respond to conventional mental health services as a result of stigma and mobility problems. Seniors are much more vulnerable to mental health problems compared to younger adults,” commented Sarah Bateup.
“In the U.S., it’s estimated that more than 23% of people over 55 suffer from a mental disorder, and as many as two-thirds of nursing home residents exhibit mental and behavioral problems. Yet, less than 3% of older adults report seeing a mental health professional for their problems,” said Dan Clark, CEO of Ieso Digital Health.
“IECBT provides older people with an important new way to access mental healthcare as it removes the perceived stigma by conferring a greater sense of privacy and can be accessed from home which is particularly beneficial if a patient is sick or immobile,” said Sarah Bateup.
IECBT, mirrors face-to-face therapy in that it involves synchronous real-time communication between therapist and patient in therapy sessions. However, communication in IECBT takes place via typing in a secure virtual therapy room. The transcript of each session, conducted in this way, is encrypted and held on a secure site for both therapist and patient to access at any time. In addition to a weekly CBT appointment, therapist and patient can also communicate.
