Can a zapping cap restore joy in depressed seniors?

NCT ID NCT07637773

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Jie Li Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called tACS to treat anhedonia (loss of interest or pleasure) in people aged 60 and older with major depression. Eighty participants will receive either real or sham stimulation over two weeks, with follow-up at three months. The goal is to see if personalized stimulation can improve mood and pleasure, and understand how it works in the brain.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) device
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a new non-drug treatment for anhedonia in older adults with depression, improving mood and quality of life.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage study with only 80 participants. The effects may be small or temporary, and not everyone may benefit. Brain stimulation can cause mild discomfort or headache.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Anhedonia major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ANHEDONIA LATE LIFE DEPRESSION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Tianjin Anding Hospital
RECRUITING

Tianjin, Tianjin Municipality, 300222, China

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