Metacognitive training for older adults with depression

Metacognitive Training in the Older Adults With Depressive Symptoms

Not applicable Interventional University of Évora · NCT05640492

This study is testing a new group program to help older adults with depression by changing negative thinking patterns to see if it can improve their mood.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment120 (estimated)
Ages60 Years to 105 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Évora Academic / other
Locations1 site (Évora)
Trial IDNCT05640492 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project focuses on a group intervention called Metacognitive Training for Depression in Later Life (MCT-Silver) designed to help older adults with depressive symptoms. The intervention aims to challenge and correct dysfunctional thinking patterns through a structured program over 4 to 8 weeks. It will be culturally adapted for Portugal and assessed through a pilot study and a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) to evaluate its efficacy. The study seeks to provide a non-pharmacological approach to managing depression in older adults.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults aged 60 and above who are experiencing depressive symptoms and can communicate in Portuguese.

Not a fit: Patients with active psychotic symptoms, acute suicidal ideation, or significant cognitive impairment may not benefit from this intervention.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly reduce depressive symptoms in older adults, improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive results for similar metacognitive training approaches, indicating potential for success in this adaptation.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Ability to give informed consent
* Age: 60 years or older
* Sufficient command of the Portuguese language
* Willingness to participate in the intervention for a period of 4 to 8 weeks (participants who do not participate in the intervention will also be included in the analysis)
* Adequate visual and hearing acuity for neuropsychological testing and participation in the group sessions
* Values above 10 on the Hamilton Depression Scale

Exclusion Criteria:

* Active psychotic symptoms (i.e., hallucinations, delusions, or manias)
* Acute suicidal ideation
* Cognitive impairment
* Dementia or other neurological disease

Where this trial is running

Évora

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 Depressive Symptoms
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.