The feasibility and impact of a brief behavioural intervention for anxiety in later life: Perceptions of general practice nurses

Background: Anxiety is prevalent in older people and is associated with adverse health outcomes. Early detection and intervention are imperative, yet clinically significant anxiety in older people is often under-diagnosed. When diagnosed, pharmacotherapy is often the initial treatment, but resistance due to stigma, polypharmacy concerns, and side effects are common among the elderly. Non-pharmacological interventions such as deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation may offer more acceptable and cost-effective options to managing anxiety. While primary care is ideal for addressing anxiety in older adults, it is important to assess the feasibility and acceptability of nurse-led interventions in general practice. Objective: To explore the perspectives of General Practice Nurses (GPNs) on the feasibility and acceptability of implementing a guided relaxation intervention for older people living with symptoms of anxiety, in Australian metropolitan and regional settings. Methods: GPNs were trained and then administered a guided relaxation intervention to older people at three metropolitan general practices and one large rural practice encompassing four sites. Subsequently, five GPNs participated in semi-structured interviews exploring the acceptability and feasibility of implementing the intervention. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and findings were mapped to four key domains of interest: “Screening”, “Training and Delivery”, “Perceived impact of the Intervention” and “Barriers to the intervention”. Results: Overall, GPNs reported that the intervention was easy to implement, was well received, helped build relationships and enabled conversations about mental health and well-being. They noted broader applicability of acquired knowledge and skills with other clients. Conclusion: The intervention shows promise in promoting and supporting healthcare capabilities in primary care. GPNs are ideally placed to detect clinical symptoms of anxiety among older people and deliver brief well-being initiatives. However, to sustain and scale well-being interventions structured skill development, commitment from general practices, and policy shifts such as government rebates for GPNs are required.