Light at the end of the tunnel? wearable device aims to lift elderly depression

NCT ID NCT07232472

ENROLLING_BY_INVITATION Symptom relief Sponsor: China Medical University Hospital Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a wearable headband that shines near-infrared light can improve depression and sleep in adults aged 60 and older with major depression. Participants will wear the device for up to 8 weeks, and researchers will track sleep, mood, and daily activity using a separate wrist monitor. The study also builds a long-term database to better understand and predict depression in older adults.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: near-infrared photobiomodulation wearable headband
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a safe, drug-free way to improve mood and sleep in older adults with depression.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage study with only 162 participants. The sham device may produce similar effects, and results may not apply to everyone.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

depressive disorder major depressive disorder Parasomnias sleep disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ELDERLY DEPRESSION SLEEP DISTURBANCE

Contacts and locations

Locations

China Medical University Beigang Hospital

London, Alabama, WC1N 2AN, United Kingdom

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.