Aerobic exercise for improving brain health in older adults with depression
Aerobic Exercise for Optimizing Cognitive and Brain Health in Remitted Late-Life Depression
NA · University of Pittsburgh · NCT04670510
This study is testing whether regular aerobic exercise can boost brain health and thinking skills in older adults who have had depression but are feeling better now.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 60 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Pittsburgh (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) |
| Trial ID | NCT04670510 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of aerobic exercise training on cognitive function and brain health in older adults who have experienced late-life depression but are currently in remission. The research aims to identify neural and cognitive benefits associated with regular aerobic exercise, which may help mitigate the risk of dementia in this vulnerable population. Participants will engage in both on-site and at-home aerobic exercise programs, along with social engagement activities, to assess the overall impact on their mental and cognitive health.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are men and women aged 60 and older who have experienced a major depressive episode in late adulthood but are currently in remission.
Not a fit: Patients currently experiencing a major depressive episode or those with significant neurological conditions will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved cognitive health and reduced dementia risk for older adults recovering from depression.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown positive outcomes with aerobic exercise in improving cognitive function in older adults, suggesting this approach may be effective.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Men and women 60+ years 2. Major Depressive Episode in older adulthood (since age 55) 3. Current level of depressive symptoms does not meet criteria for a Major Depressive Episode 4. Ambulatory without pain or the assistance of walking devices 5. Able to speak and read English 6. Exercise level of \<100 minutes per week on average 7. Medical clearance by primary care physician (PCP) 8. Living in community for duration of the study 9. Reliable means of transportation 10. No diagnosis of a neurological disease 11. Eligible to undergo MRI Exclusion Criteria: 1. Current diagnosis of a Major Depressive Episode 2. Psychosis 3. Significant suicide risk (i.e., current, active suicidal ideation with a plan) 4. Electroconvulsive therapy within the past 12 months 5. Engaging in moderate-intensity exercise \>100 minutes per week on average 6. Current treatment for cancer - except non-melanoma skin 7. Neurological condition (MS, Parkinson's, Dementia, MCI) or brain injury (Stroke) 8. Substance Use disorder in the past 3-months 9. Current treatment for congestive heart failure, angina, uncontrolled arrhythmia, deep vein thromboses (DVT) or other cardiovascular event 10. Myocardial infarction, coronary artery bypass grafting, angioplasty or other cardiac condition in the past year including uncontrolled hypertension 11. Regular use of an assisted walking device 12. Presence of metal implants (pacemaker, stents) that would be MR ineligible 13. Claustrophobia 14. Color Blindness 15. Significant visual or hearing impairments that would preclude neuropsychological assessment or communication with study staff via a virtual format (videoteleconference) 16. Not fluent in English 17. Not medically cleared by PCP 18. Traveling consecutively for 3+ weeks during the study 19. MOCA (\<20 to exclude) and MADRS (\>9 to exclude)
Where this trial is running
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- UPMC Western Psychiatric Hospital — Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Swathi Gujral, PhD — University of Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Miranda Nadeo
- Email: nadeomm@upmc.edu
- Phone: 412-246-6487
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Depression in Old Age, Depression, Exercise, Late-Life, Cognitive Impairment, Brain Health