Exploring the effects of writing on health in older adults
Writing About Experiences and Health in Older Adults II
PHASE1 · University of California, Los Angeles · NCT05524597
This study tests if writing about personal experiences can improve the health and well-being of healthy older adults aged 65 and above.
Quick facts
| Phase | PHASE1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 200 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of California, Los Angeles (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Los Angeles, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT05524597 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates how writing about personal experiences influences the brain and body in healthy older adults aged 65 and above. Participants will engage in a weekly writing intervention for six weeks, during which they will also complete online questionnaires. Additionally, they will undergo neuroimaging sessions and provide blood samples at the beginning and end of the writing period to assess any physiological changes. The study aims to understand the potential health benefits of expressive writing in older populations.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy adults aged 65 years and older.
Not a fit: Patients with active medical disorders, psychiatric conditions, or those who are left-handed may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance mental and physical health outcomes for older adults through therapeutic writing practices.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the health benefits of expressive writing, suggesting this approach may be effective.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Healthy adults age 65 years and older Exclusion Criteria: 1. current smokers 2. active, uncontrolled medical disorders 3. chronic infection (e.g., Hepatitis C, HIV) 4. use of certain medications (steroid use, opioid use) 5. psychiatric disorders (e.g., current major depression, bipolar disorder) 6. body mass index (BMI) greater than 35 7. left-handed 8. claustrophobic 9. metal in body Other exclusion criteria may apply.
Where this trial is running
Los Angeles, California
- Center for Cognitive Neuroscience — Los Angeles, California, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Naomi Eisenberger, Ph.D.
- Email: neisenbe@ucla.edu
- Phone: 3108494330
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: Social Psychology