Qigong practice for elderly individuals with depression
A Randomized Controlled Neurophysiological Study of Qigong in Elderly with Depression
This study is testing whether practicing Qigong can help reduce depression and improve thinking skills in older adults aged 65 and up.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (North Point, HK Island) |
| Trial ID | NCT05000788 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of Qigong, specifically the Eight-Section Brocades, on elderly individuals suffering from depression. It aims to understand how this mind-body practice influences the central nervous system's function, using functional Near Infra-red Spectroscopy (fNIRS) for measurement. A total of 60 participants aged 65 and above will be randomly assigned to either the Qigong treatment group or a control group that engages in regular exercise. The study will assess changes in depressive symptoms and cognitive functions as indicated by the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS).
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are elderly individuals aged 65 or older who exhibit depressive symptoms as measured by the Geriatric Depression Scale.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of head injury, seizure, stroke, other central nervous system diseases, or significant psychiatric comorbidities may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a non-pharmacological intervention for improving mood and cognitive function in elderly patients with depression.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using Qigong in this context may be novel, other studies have shown positive outcomes with mind-body practices for depression in elderly populations.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Elderly aged 65 years or above with depressive symptoms as indicated by the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). Exclusion Criteria: * Current positive history of head injury, seizure, stroke, other CNS diseases, other comorbid psychiatric illness, or reports of strong suicidal ideation.
Where this trial is running
North Point, HK Island
- Buddhist Ho L.F. Tak Elderly Social Centre — North Point, HK Island, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Yvonne Han, PhD
- Email: yvonne.han@polyu.edu.hk
- Phone: +852 2766 7578
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.