Effectiveness of a training programme based on acceptance and commitment therapy aimed at older adults – no moderating role of cognitive functioning

Introduction
To assess the effectiveness of psychological skills training based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in lowering the psychopathological symptoms and increasing the quality of life in older adults over 60 years of age (N = 60). Also assessed was the moderating role of the level of cognitive functioning measured by the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) scale.

Material and methods
Volunteers were randomly assigned to two groups: the experimental group whose training comprised a total of 12 sessions which took place 2-3 times a week, and the passive control group. The level of the participants’ cognitive functioning was assessed with the MMSE. The participants filled in the questionnaires (DASS-21, WHOQL-Age) twice: at the baseline and after a month.

Results
The depressive and anxiety symptoms decreased significantly in the experimental group between the measurements. A similar effect did not occur in the control group. The level of quality of life increased significantly during the month, again, only in the experimental group. The mental state level did not significantly moderate the aforementioned changes.

Conclusions
A vast number of reports confirm the effectiveness of ACT-based interventions in many aspects of mental health and general functioning. This study shows the potential of implementing an ACT-based training programme in the group of older adults, regardless of their mental state or possible dementia processes.