Brain stimulation for depression in older adults
Part of Mental health clinical trials.
This study tests whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can help treat depression in people aged 60 and older. tDCS uses a mild electrical current to gently stimulate the brain and may improve mood when added to your current depression treatment.
Summary written for real people, not researchers, by Clin2.
Who can take part
- You are 60 years old or older.
- You have been diagnosed with major depression (unipolar type).
- Your depression symptoms are at least moderately severe.
- If you take antidepressant medication, your dose has been stable for at least 4 weeks.
- You have a friend or family member who can provide information about your daily life.
- You must not have certain metal implants in your head or skin conditions on your scalp.
- You must not have a pacemaker, cochlear implant, or severe claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces).
- You do not have a history of seizures, bipolar disorder, psychosis, or severe personality disorder.
- You have not had certain other brain stimulation treatments (like ECT, TMS, or VNS) in the past 6 months.
- You are not actively suicidal with a plan, and you are not pregnant.
Quick eligibility check
Answer a few plain-language questions, based on this study's own requirements, to get a preliminary sense of fit.
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