A Self-Guided Cognitive Behavioral Therapy App for Middle-Aged and Older Adults With Anxiety or Depression: Pilot Feasibility, Acceptability, and Symptom Reduction.
| Publication Type | Academic Article |
| Authors | Bress J, Schier M, Mir Z, Jaywant A, Falk A, Bennett S, Sirey J, Gunning F |
| Journal | Am J Geriatr Psychiatry Open Sci Educ Pract |
| Volume | 11 |
| Pagination | 75-81 |
| Date Published | 07/18/2026 |
| ISSN | 2950-3868 |
| Abstract | OBJECTIVES: This pilot study evaluated acceptability, feasibility, and symptom reduction with Maya-a cognitive behavioral therapy app adapted for middle-aged and older adults-and identified themes in qualitative feedback. METHODS: Participants were 10 adults aged 44-75 with depressive or anxiety disorders who received a 6-week (12-session) program of Maya. Outcomes were measured at baseline and weeks 3, 6, and 12. RESULTS: Acceptability (User Version of the Mobile Application Rating Scale) exceeded four out of five, indicating good acceptability, at all time points. Participants completed M = 7.00 (58.3%) of 12 sessions by week 6 (end of intervention). Clinically meaningful decreases in depression (Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale) and anxiety (Hamilton Anxiety Scale) were observed in 57% and 71% of participants, respectively, who completed the week 6 assessment. CONCLUSIONS: These results provide preliminary evidence that the Maya app is acceptable and feasible in middle aged and older adults. Next steps include an adequately powered randomized controlled trial. |
| DOI | 10.1016/j.osep.2026.07.001 |
| PubMed ID | 42877446 |
| PubMed Central ID | PMC13668266 |