Cognitive behavioural therapy with older people.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a structured, brief psychological treatment approach with a wide range of applications, including the treatment of psychological disorders that accompany physical illness. Over recent years there has been an expansion in the use of CBT with older people. Knowledge of CBT helps doctors to understand the mechanisms of psychological disorders and to make appropriate referrals for treatment. The objectives of this narrative review are to describe the principles of CBT, to summarise its indications and evidence base in the treatment of older people, to outline the special considerations that apply in the treatment of older people, and to list novel developments.