Internet cognitive behavioral therapy for seniors with depression

The New Internet Generation: iCBT Treatment for Seniors With Mild-moderate Depression - a Pragmatic Randomised Controlled Trial in the Primary Care Context

Not applicable Interventional Göteborg University · NCT06537869

This study is testing if an online therapy program can help seniors aged 65 and older with mild to moderate depression feel better compared to regular treatment they usually get.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment390 (estimated)
Ages65 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorGöteborg University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Gothenburg)
Trial IDNCT06537869 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of internet cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) for elderly patients aged 65 and older with mild to moderate depression, comparing it to standard treatment as usual (TAU) in primary care settings. Participants will engage in a 10-12 week iCBT program with minimal therapist contact, while the control group will receive TAU according to Swedish National Guidelines. The study will assess various outcomes, including depressive symptoms, quality of life, and daily functioning, over a follow-up period of up to 36 months.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals over 65 years old with mild to moderate depressive symptoms attending primary care centers.

Not a fit: Patients with severe depression, a history of suicide attempts, or other significant psychiatric conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide an accessible and effective treatment option for elderly patients suffering from depression.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for iCBT in younger populations, but this specific application for seniors is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* All patients \>65, attending PCCs engaged in the trial, with mood as well as somatic complaints will be asked about depressive symptoms during the last 2 weeks by NICE guidelines for depression.
* All patients diagnosed with minor/major depression and not belonging to exclusion criteria and willing to take part in the trial will be diagnosed via the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.) by a psychologist/specially trained nurse and have a General Practitioner (GP) somatic consultation

Exclusion Criteria:

Patients diagnosed with:

* severe depression
* prior suicide attempt or currently at medium to high risk of suicide (MADRS-S question 9\>3 points or MINI suicide \>9)
* bipolar disorder
* psychosis
* addiction
* cognitive impairment
* not speaking or understanding Swedish.

Where this trial is running

Gothenburg

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Depression MildDepression Moderate
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.