Reducing Depression and Improving Well-being in Elderly Women in India Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Group Activities

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are conducting a randomized controlled trial to reduce depression among elderly women in low-income settings. The study aims to improve outlook on life and relationships by using cognitive behavioral therapy CBT and facilitated group activities. The trial includes four groups CBT at home visits, group activities, both interventions combined, and a control group receiving neither. This study addresses the high risk of mental illness among elderly women due to life events such as illnesses or deaths of peers. The interventions involve community volunteers delivering CBT once a week at home for six weeks, followed by three monthly booster sessions. Some participants receive ongoing monthly CBT boosters beyond the initial period. Group activities are hour-long weekly sessions held in community spaces for 12 weeks, with some participants continuing weekly activities beyond this time. The control group receives no intervention. Randomization occurs at the village level for group activities and at the individual level for CBT within villages. Participants will be assessed immediately after the 12-week intervention and again six months later. Researchers will measure depression scores, difficulties in daily activities, loneliness, cognitive function, sleep quality, perceived health, physical mobility, and personal agency. The study is sponsored by the National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc. and aims to track the mental health and functional outcomes of elderly women over this period.

The Health and Social Consequences of Depression Among the Elderly