Peer support for depression in people noticing memory changes
Developing a Peer Support Intervention for Depression in SCD
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-11115737
This project offers an 8-week virtual peer-led support program for older adults who have depression and are worried about changes in their memory.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11115737 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If I join, I would meet weekly online with a trained older-adult peer coach who has lived experience with depression for eight weeks. The program teaches social support, self-care skills, and helps connect me to community and clinical resources using a manualized curriculum adapted for people who notice memory problems. The team will especially tailor the program for older adults of color and collect information about mood, confidence, loneliness, and memory concerns to see what helps. The work builds on earlier feasibility tests and aims to refine the program before a larger trial.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are community-dwelling older adults who report subjective cognitive decline and current depressive symptoms and who can join virtual meetings and speak English.
Not a fit: People with clear objective dementia, severe psychiatric conditions (like active psychosis or unmanaged suicidal thoughts), or who cannot use online sessions are unlikely to benefit from this program.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could reduce depressive symptoms, improve coping and social support, and help guide better care for people with early memory concerns.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work with the same Peer Enhanced Depression Care approach showed it is feasible and acceptable for underserved older adults, but its effect specifically on people with subjective cognitive decline is new.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: JOO, JIN HUI — MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: JOO, JIN HUI
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 below.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease