Improving memory in therapy for older adults with PTSD

Enhancing Memory in Cognitive Processing Therapy for Older Adults with PTSD

NIH-funded research Philadelphia VA Medical Center · NIH-11003329

This study is looking to make cognitive processing therapy better for older adults with PTSD by adding some memory support techniques to help them remember what they learn in therapy, so they can feel better and cope with their experiences more effectively.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPhiladelphia VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11003329 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of cognitive processing therapy (CPT) for older adults suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It aims to address the challenges these individuals face in learning and retaining therapeutic skills due to cognitive decline associated with aging. By integrating a Memory Support intervention, the study will explore strategies to improve memory encoding and retrieval of therapy content, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes. The research will assess how well these strategies are accepted and their feasibility in a clinical setting.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults diagnosed with PTSD, particularly veterans who may struggle with cognitive challenges.

Not a fit: Patients who are not older adults or those without a PTSD diagnosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment outcomes for older adults with PTSD by enhancing their ability to learn and apply therapeutic skills.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing therapy outcomes through memory support interventions, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions bipolar affective disorderbipolar diseaseBipolar Disorderbipolar mood disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.