Behavioral Activation to prevent and treat depression in older adults
Behavioral Activation for the Prevention and Treatment of Depression in Older Adults in a Municipal Context: a Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing if a short therapy called Behavioral Activation can help older adults in Sweden prevent and treat depression while comparing it to their usual care.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 160 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Sormland County Council, Sweden Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Eskilstuna, Sörmland) |
| Trial ID | NCT06415838 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of a brief psychological treatment called Behavioral Activation (BA) for preventing and treating depression in older adults within a municipal context in Sweden. Participants aged 65 and older will be randomized to receive either the BA treatment, consisting of five sessions over two months, or continue with their usual care. The study aims to assess the impact of BA on various factors including depressive symptoms, anxiety, functional ability, and overall quality of life. Additionally, it will gather insights from both patients and therapists regarding their experiences with the treatment.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults aged 65 and above who exhibit depressive symptoms and are fluent in Swedish.
Not a fit: Patients with major neurocognitive disorders, elevated suicide risk, or those currently undergoing psychological treatment may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve the mental health and quality of life for older adults suffering from depression.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise for behavioral activation in treating depression, suggesting this approach may be effective in similar contexts.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 65 years or older * 5 points or above on the Geriatric Depression Scale 15, GDS-15 * Fluent in written and spoken Swedish * Consents to participate in the trial Exclusion Criteria: * Not able to use the patient materials due to visual impairment * Not able to communicate with therapist due to hearing impairment * Diagnosis of major neurocognitive disorder * Below 25 points on the Mini Mental State Examination, MMSE * Elevated suicide risk * Current substance- or alcohol use disorder * Previous or current psychotic disorder * Previous or current bipolar disorder * Ongoing psychological treatment/pscyhotherapy
Where this trial is running
Eskilstuna, Sörmland
- Eskilstuna kommun — Eskilstuna, Sörmland, Sweden (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Johnny Pellas, PhD — Research and Development Sormland
- Study coordinator: Johnny Pellas, PhD
- Email: johnny.pellas@pubcare.uu.se
- Phone: +46702319795
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.