Depression treatment delivered through devices for adults with elder or self neglect
Official title: Leveraging Adult Protective Service Interaction to Offer Evidence-Based Treatment for Depression in Elder Neglect/Self Neglect
Run by The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston · NCT06910267 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether a tablet/smartphone-based behavioral activation treatment helps adults with depression who have APS involvement and may reduce neglect or self-neglect behaviors.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Houston, Texas) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 15, 2026 |
| Main results expected | November 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | January 24, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | June 30, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06910267 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults with open APS cases who score 9 or higher on the PHQ-9 and do not have bipolar, psychotic disorders, moderate/severe dementia, active suicidal intent, or current substantial substance dependence.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with conditions that prevent engagement with the device-based intervention or with exclusion criteria may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This feasibility study tests an evidence-based, device-delivered treatment for depression in adults with active Adult Protective Services cases. It explores whether delivering Behavioral Activation via ipad, computer, or smartphone can improve depressive symptoms and apathy, and whether these changes relate to reductions in elder neglect or self-neglect behaviors. Participants must have an open APS case and a PHQ-9 score of 9 or higher. Exclusions include certain severe mental health conditions, lack of consent proxy, active suicidal intent, and current substance dependence. The study is led by UT Health Houston with collaboration from the National Institute on Aging and is conducted at UT Health Houston in Houston, TX.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience reduced depressive symptoms and improved daily functioning, which could lessen neglect or self-neglect behaviors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies using device-delivered behavioral activation in similar populations have shown promise, but this exact APS-targeted approach is novel in this context.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * APS Case in APS Region VI- Must have open case * PHQ 9 score- Must have score of nine (9) or more Exclusion Criteria: * Previous mental health diagnosis of bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, and moderate to severe dementia * Assessment of Consent Proxy- Those who need assessment of consent proxy * Suicidal Intent (as indexed by PhQ-9 question 9)- Those scoring 2 or 3 * Current Alcohol and Drug Dependency- As evidenced by Cut down, Annoyed, Guilty, and Eye-opener (CAGE) score of 3 or more
Where it's running
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The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
Houston, Texas, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Leila Wood, PhD, MSSW — The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
- Study coordinator: Leila Wood, PhD, MSSW
- Email: Leila.G.Wood@uth.tmc.edu
- Phone: (713) 486-2700
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.