Enhancing cognitive function in older adults with depression
Non-invasive Neuromodulation to Enhance Targeted Cognitive Remediation in Older Adults With Depression
NA · Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NCT05400512
This study is testing if a combination of brain stimulation and computer-based exercises can help improve thinking skills in older adults who have depression.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 60 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Vanderbilt University Medical Center (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Nashville, Tennessee) |
| Trial ID | NCT05400512 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with computerized cognitive training on cognitive functions in older adults suffering from recurrent depression. Participants aged 60 and above will be randomly assigned to receive either active or sham tDCS alongside daily cognitive training over a four-week period. The study will utilize multimodal MRI and various psychiatric and neuropsychological assessments to evaluate changes in brain activity and cognitive performance both immediately after the intervention and three months later.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults aged 60 and above with a history of recurrent depressive episodes and subjective cognitive complaints.
Not a fit: Patients with other significant psychiatric conditions or acute suicidality may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve cognitive function and overall quality of life for older adults with recurrent depression.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using tDCS for cognitive enhancement, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 60+ years * Diagnosis of a current or past (within last 3 years) depressive episode (e.g., Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)) using Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria * In total, participants must have 2 or more lifetime depressive episodes to be considered "recurrent" * Either stable antidepressant regimen for at least 6 weeks or no current antidepressant treatment * Evidence of subjective cognitive complaints on the Everyday Cognition Scale (ECog) * English fluency Exclusion criteria: * Other Axis I psychiatric conditions via the DSM-5, except for anxiety symptoms occurring in a depressive episode * Acute suicidality on clinical evaluation * Acute grief * History of alcohol use disorder or substance use disorder in last 12 months * Currently taking medications that would significantly interact with tDCS effects (such as sodium channel blockers or anticonvulsants) * Neurological disorders (e.g., dementia, stroke, seizures, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson's disease) * Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score \< 23 * Primary amnestic cognitive profile (\>1.5 standard deviations (SDs) below demographically-adjusted mean on National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center (NACC) memory measures in context of otherwise normal cognitive profile) * Any physical or intellectual disability affecting ability to complete assessments * Unstable medical illness needing urgent treatment * MRI contraindications * Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) or transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in last 2 months * Current involvement in psychotherapy * Current involvement in other research studies (including but not limited to: neuromodulation \[TMS or tDCS\] or investigational drug studies)
Where this trial is running
Nashville, Tennessee
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, Tennessee, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Sarah M. Szymkowicz, PhD — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Sarah M. Szymkowicz, PhD
- Email: sarah.szymkowicz@vumc.org
- Phone: 615-875-0032
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: Aging, Depression, Cognitive Symptom, geriatrics, aging, elderly, cognition, memory