Peer support intervention for depression in older adults with cognitive decline
Developing a Peer Support Intervention for Depression in SCD
This study is testing a new 8-week peer support program to see if it helps older adults with depression and memory issues feel better and improve their daily lives.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 60 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Massachusetts General Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Boston, Massachusetts) |
| Trial ID | NCT06358404 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and fidelity of an 8-week peer support intervention called PeersCOG for older adults aged 60 and above who experience depression and subjective cognitive decline. Thirty community-dwelling participants will receive depression care delivered by trained peer coaches through video chats and texts. The study will utilize mixed methods to assess outcomes related to depression, cognitive decline, functioning, and social factors at baseline, after 8 weeks, and at 3 months. Additionally, participants will involve a study partner to provide support and insights throughout the intervention.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults aged 60 and above who report subjective cognitive decline and depressive symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients with a current major depressive disorder or significant neurological conditions like mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's dementia may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could provide effective depression care tailored for older adults facing cognitive challenges.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using peer support interventions for mental health, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Older adults aged 60+ * Endorse subjective cognitive decline * Endorse depressive symptoms * not currently experiencing suicidal ideation nor active, untreated manic, psychotic, or substance use disorder * fluent in English and able to give informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Meets diagnostic criteria for mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's dementia * Meets diagnostic criteria for a current major depressive disorder * have a history of neurological and psychiatric comorbidities such as major depressive disorder in the past 12 months
Where this trial is running
Boston, Massachusetts
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Jin Hui Joo, MD
- Email: jhjoo@mgh.harvard.edu
- Phone: 617-724-5317
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.