Alexa lends an ear: new study tests voice assistant for depression in seniors
NCT ID NCT06114485
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tests a voice-assisted program using Amazon Alexa to help older adults (65+) with depression and their caregivers. Participants use the program for goal setting, reminders, and other mental health support over 12 weeks. Some participants also receive a guide to help them use the program fully. The study measures changes in depression and anxiety symptoms.
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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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80 people
The number who actually took part.
- Started
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Dec 2023
- Expected to finish
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Jun 2026
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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18 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.
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Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion criteria: * Adults 65 years or older * English-speaking * Elevated depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 ≥ 10) * Have Wi-Fi access * Cognitively intact (Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) score ≥17) or Inclusion criteria: * Adults 18 years or older * English-speaking * Provide support to an older adult (65 or older) * Have access to Wi-Fi * Demonstrating capacity to consent * Cognitively intact (Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) score ≥17 if 65 years or older)
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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.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Northwestern University
Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States
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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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