Exploring the effects of writing on health in older adults
Official title: Writing About Experiences and Health in Older Adults II
Run by University of California, Los Angeles · NCT05524597 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 | Phase 1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 200 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of California, Los Angeles Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Los Angeles, California) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 13, 2023 |
| Main results expected | December 2026 |
| Study ends | December 2026 |
| Registry record updated | October 15, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05524597 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are healthy adults aged 65 years and older.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with active medical disorders, psychiatric conditions, or those who are left-handed may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the health benefits of expressive writing, suggesting this approach may be effective.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
Center for Cognitive Neuroscience
Los Angeles, California, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Naomi Eisenberger, Ph.D.
- Email: neisenbe@ucla.edu
- Phone: 3108494330
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
-
Psychological support for adults with Marfan syndrome
This study looks at why adults with Marfan syndrome seek psychological support and how their condition affects their mental health and coping skills.
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.