Brain Function, Emotions, and Behavior in Healthy Older Adults

Clinical Trial Details

The purpose of this study is to compare thinking, emotions, and brain function in older adults without a history of psychiatric illness to older adults who are receiving treatment for depression in our other studies. This research is being done to help develop, understand, and improve treatments for depression in older adults.

Research assessments will be conducted at three time points – baseline, week 6, and week 9 – and will include measuring brain activity, computer tasks, and questionnaires about mood and thoughts. Participants are compensated for each visit.

Key Eligibility:

Inclusion Criteria

At least 60 years old
Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale score < 10
Mini-Mental State Examination score ≥ 24
Capacity to consent
English speaking

Exclusion Criteria

Intent or plan to attempt suicide
Current or past psychiatric illness other than specific phobia
Use of psychotropic drugs or cholinesterase inhibitors other than mild doses of benzodiazepines
Serious medical conditions such as neurological disorders, severe COPD, metastatic cancer, cardiac/renal/respiratory failure, or another condition that influences neural systems