Online psychotherapy program for older adults with depression
Internet Delivered Psychotherapy for Older Adults: Development and Evaluation of an Online Problem-Solving Therapy Program for Depression.
This study is testing an online therapy program designed to help older adults with depression by providing weekly sessions and personalized feedback from a trained therapist.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 13 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Calgary Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Calgary, Alberta) |
| Trial ID | NCT05739370 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This intervention focuses on developing and evaluating an internet-delivered psychotherapy option called Ger-iPST for older adults experiencing symptoms of depression. Participants will engage in 8 weekly online therapy modules, each lasting 45-60 minutes, with additional homework assignments. The program aims to improve access to effective psychotherapy by utilizing Problem-Solving Therapy (PST) tailored specifically for older adults. A trained clinician will provide personalized feedback on homework submissions through the online platform. The study will also explore barriers and facilitators to using this online therapy.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 65 and older who are experiencing symptoms of depression and have internet access.
Not a fit: Patients with acute safety concerns, psychotic symptoms, or moderate cognitive impairment may not benefit from this program.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve access to effective mental health treatment for older adults suffering from depression.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success with internet-delivered psychotherapy approaches, particularly for older adults, indicating potential for this intervention.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Individuals who are 65 years or older * Presenting with a primary complaint of depression and a Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)-9 score \> 5 * English Speaking * Residents of Alberta * Have internet access Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals with acute safety concerns (e.g.suicidal ideation), psychotic symptoms, moderate cognitive impairment (Montreal Cognitive Assessment(MoCA) \< 21) or currently receiving psychotherapy
Where this trial is running
Calgary, Alberta
- Department of Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary — Calgary, Alberta, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Julia Kirkham, MD — University of Calgary
- Study coordinator: Julia Kirkham, MD
- Email: geripst@ucalgary.ca
- Phone: 403 955 6155
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.