A digital program to help older adults with obesity and depression
Official title: digital InteGrated behavioral treatmeNt for comorbid obesITy and deprEssion among racial and ethnic adults age 50 and older (IGNITE)
Funded at University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-11040989 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a friendly voice coach on Amazon's Alexa that helps older adults, especially those from different racial and ethnic backgrounds, tackle both obesity and depression at the same time, making it easier for them to stick to their treatment and feel better overall.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $782,037 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG084527-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11040989 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 50 and older who are experiencing both obesity and depression, particularly those from racial and ethnic minority backgrounds.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have obesity or depression, or those under the age of 50, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a digital behavioral intervention designed to address both obesity and depression in older adults, particularly focusing on racial and ethnic minorities. The program utilizes a voice-based virtual coach on Amazon's Alexa platform to deliver integrated treatment, combining problem-solving therapy for depression with a behavioral weight loss intervention. By targeting both conditions simultaneously, the research aims to improve treatment adherence and quality of life for participants. The approach is designed to be scalable and accessible, addressing the unique challenges faced by older adults in managing these comorbid conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the mental and physical health of older adults suffering from both obesity and depression.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success with integrated behavioral interventions for comorbid conditions, indicating a promising approach for this novel digital intervention.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ma, Jun — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Ma, Jun
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.