Preventing depression in older stroke survivors through behavioral activation
Official title: BehavioraL ActIvation for the PreVention of Post-strokE Depression in LoW-incomE OLder Stroke Survivors (LIVE-WEL)
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11119253 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a friendly online program designed to help older adults who have had a stroke stay active and engaged in enjoyable activities to prevent feelings of depression, especially for those who may be struggling financially.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | June 4, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,340,333 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH140091-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11119253 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are low-income older adults who have experienced a stroke and are at risk for developing post-stroke depression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not stroke survivors or those who do not meet the age and income criteria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of a behavioral activation program delivered via telehealth to help prevent post-stroke depression in low-income older adults. The program focuses on increasing engagement in meaningful activities while reducing avoidance behaviors, which can contribute to depression. Trained lay counselors will provide support, making this approach more accessible and cost-effective compared to traditional therapy. The study aims to address the unique challenges faced by older stroke survivors, particularly those with financial strain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of post-stroke depression, improving the quality of life for older stroke survivors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that behavioral activation can be effective in treating depression, suggesting a promising approach for this population.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Beauchamp, Jennifer Elizabeth Sanner — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Beauchamp, Jennifer Elizabeth Sanner
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Combining rTMS and aerobic exercise to help post-stroke depression and walking
A new approach tests whether adding aerobic exercise to rTMS can reduce depression after stroke and improve walking.
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Understanding why post-stroke depression happens in older mice
A study in aged mice investigates how stroke can lead to depression and what biological changes drive it, with a focus on the roles of oxytocin and taurine.
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rTMS plus aerobic exercise for post‑stroke depression and walking recovery
This project combines repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) with aerobic exercise to try to reduce depression and improve walking for people after a stroke.
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Understanding Depression After Stroke
This project explores how depression develops after a stroke, especially in older individuals, by looking at brain changes and potential protective factors.
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Understanding how stroke affects depression in older mice
This study is looking at how a stroke can lead to depression in older mice, focusing on how the body's immune response and inflammation play a role, and it hopes to find ways to use natural substances like oxytocin and taurine to help improve mood and recovery for people who have had a stroke.
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Using exercise and brain stimulation to help people with depression after a stroke
This study is looking at whether doing aerobic exercise along with a special treatment called rTMS can help people who are feeling depressed after a stroke feel better and recover more effectively.
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.