Short term memory, executive function and CBT outcome in older adults
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The relationship between executive functioning and working memory performance and outcomes of CBT for generalized anxiety disorder in a clinical setting, in cognitively healthy older adults
IRAS ID
301704
Contact name
Fiona Patrick
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 8 months, 29 days
Research summary
There is some evidence to suggest that healthy ageing can involve slight changes in certain aspects of cognitive skills. These skills include executive functioning (EF), which is a broad term including functions such as planning and working towards goals, and working memory (WM), which is our ability to hold information in mind for short periods of time (for example, repeating back a telephone number is an example of working memory). These skills can also be affected by anxiety. These skills may be important in certain therapies, like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). As such, I am hoping to explore whether people’s executive function and working memory is related to their experience of CBT. In particular, I hope to explore whether these skills are related to how effective CBT is when used to treat anxiety. As these skills may be affected by anxiety and by ageing, I am hoping to particularly explore this in older adults (individuals aged over 60). If the skills do affect experience of CBT for anxiety, these findings could encourage research in to improved CBT treatment for older adults who have changes in the skills.
REC name
South Central - Berkshire B Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
23/SC/0201
Date of REC Opinion
20 Jun 2023
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion