Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated the impact of community-based health care interventions delivered in out-patient or home settings on depression in adults aged 64 or older with a diagnosis of heart disease were eligible for inclusion.
Included studies evaluated T'ai Chi Chuan and Chi Kung exercise, a cardiac rehabilitation exercise programme, telehealth interventions, self-disease management programmes, transcendental meditation and a secondary prevention clinic. Where stated, control conditions were usual care or education only. Intervention durations ranged from six weeks to 16 months. Participants had a range of diagnoses of cardiac disease. Mean age ranged from 64 to 80 years. Where reported, most participants were white. Depression was assessed using a variety of standardised scales suitable for an older population. The studies were conducted in USA, Sweden, Japan, UK and Finland.
Two reviewers selected the studies for review.