New online course helps seniors kick the benzo habit
NCT ID NCT06359314
First seen Jan 05, 2026 · Last updated Jun 23, 2026 · Updated 28 times
Summary
This study tested an online program called ALDER that teaches older adults skills to boost positive emotions and reduce anxiety. 33 people aged 65 and older who used benzodiazepines (anti-anxiety or sleep medications) at least twice a week took part. Over 5 weeks, they learned and practiced emotion regulation skills online. The study found the program was feasible and well-liked, and it may help reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and lower medication use.
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This is a summary of
the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Northwestern Medicine
Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
ALDER (online positive emotion regulation program)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a safe, non-drug way for older adults to reduce anxiety and sleep problems while cutting back on benzodiazepines.
What could go wrong
This was a small, early feasibility study with only 33 participants and no control group. Larger trials are needed to confirm real benefits.
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.