Bright light, better nights? a trial tests whether tailored lighting can ease sleep troubles and depression in Alzheimer's.

NCT ID NCT01816152

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 28, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial investigates whether daily exposure to a bluish-white light (at least 300-500 lux for two hours) can improve sleep efficiency, reduce depression, and calm agitation in people with mild to moderate Alzheimer's or related dementias. Participants are assigned to one of three light levels, including a dim yellowish-white comparison. The study measures changes in sleep quality, agitation, and depression scores after four weeks.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: tailored bluish-white light therapy delivering at least 300-500 lux at the eye for 2+ hours daily
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a simple, drug-free way to improve sleep and mood in people with dementia.
What could go wrong: This is an early-phase trial testing methodology, not yet a proven treatment. The effect may be small or not work for everyone, and the light setup may be impractical for some caregivers.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Alzheimer disease dementia Depression depressive disorder Parasomnias Psychomotor Agitation sleep disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

DEPRESSION SLEEP DISTURBANCES

Contacts and locations

Locations

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Albany, New York, 12204, United States
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

New York, New York, 10029, United States

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