NCT07188623 · Stanford University
Virtual Reality-Enhanced Behavioral Activation for Older Adults With Depression
What this study is about
The primary aims of this study are to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and tolerability of using an immersive virtual reality (VR) headset to engage in behavioral activation (BA) for older adults diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD). The secondary aim of this study is to explore the effectiveness of using VR to enhance BA therapy in a clinical MDD older adult population.
View original scientific description
The primary aims of this study are to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and tolerability of using an immersive virtual reality (VR) headset to engage in behavioral activation (BA) for older adults diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD). The secondary aim of this study is to explore the efficacy of using VR to enhance BA therapy in a clinical MDD older adult population.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
VR-Enhanced BA
Participants will choose at least one "activity" per day to complete in the loaned HTC VIVE Flow Immersive Glasses extended reality over the course of the week. These activities are chosen from the headset and include video 360.
Primary outcome measures
Change in Depression Scores on the GDS-15 From Baseline to Session 5
Time frame: Assessed at the beginning of sessions 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 (days 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29)
How participants' depression scores on the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15) change over time using VR-enhanced BA. The GDS-15 is a 15-question screener with a score range of 0-15, with 15 indicating the most severe depression and 0 indicating a lack of depression symptoms. The greater the change over time, the greater the symptom reduction.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Patient must meet DSM V criteria for MDD
- Patient must be at least 65 years of age
- Patient must be English speaking
- Without cognitive impairment
Exclusion criteria
- Substance Use Disorders in past year
- Any psychosis or bipolar I disorder
- Any seizure in the last 6 months or untreated epilepsy
- Current nonsuicidal self-injury or parasuicidal behavior
- Current suicidal urges and intent
- Changing psychotherapy treatment within three months of study entry
- Changing psychotropic medication(s) within two months of study entry
Where
- Stanford, California
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Feb 20, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations