Virtual reality could lift mood and sharpen minds in depressed seniors
NCT ID NCT07710222
First seen Jul 17, 2026 · Last updated Jul 17, 2026
Summary
This pilot study tests a group-based cognitive stimulation program using virtual reality for people aged 65 and older who have depressive symptoms and attend Portuguese day centers. The program aims to improve cognitive function, well-being, and daily functioning while reducing depressive symptoms. The trial will assess whether the program is feasible and acceptable, and gather early signs of its effects.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- a cognitive stimulation program with virtual reality
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could offer a non-drug, engaging way to improve mood and thinking in older adults with depressive symptoms.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small pilot study focused on feasibility, not proof of effectiveness. The results may not apply to all older adults or settings.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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About 60 people
The number the study aims to enrol. It can still change while the study runs.
- Expected to start
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Sep 2026
An estimate. Start dates often move.
- Expected to finish
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Mar 2027
An estimate. End dates often move.
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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65 years and older
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Individuals aged 65 years or older attending Portuguese day care centers; * Presence of mild, moderate, or severe depressive symptomatology; * Language skills and visual acuity. Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals presenting illiteracy and/or medical diagnosis of neurocognitive disorder or significant cognitive deficits (Mini-Mental State Examination)
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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.
How to take part
Only the study team decides who joins. These are the ways to reach them.
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The official record
The full official record for this study. This one lists no contact details, but it is the first place any would appear.
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A doctor treating you
A doctor who knows your case can contact a study site on your behalf, and can tell you whether this study is worth pursuing at all.
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