NCT06586619 · Florida International University
A Remotely Delivered Tai Chi/Qigong Intervention for Older People Living With HIV
What this study is about
The goal of this randomly assigned clinical trial is to learn if tai chi/qigong decreases depressive symptoms among older people living with HIV compared to a health education class.
View original scientific description
The goal of this randomized clinical trial is to learn if tai chi/qigong decreases depressive symptoms among older people living with HIV compared to a health education class. The main questions it aims to answer are: Does tai chi/qigong reduce depressive symptoms among older people living with HIV more than a health education class? What are the behavioral, psychological, and biological mechanisms in which tai chi/qigong affects depressive symptoms? Does tai chi/qigong affect depressive symptoms among older people living with HIV differently for men compared to women? Researchers will compare a 12-week, twice a week remotely delivered tai chi/qigong intervention to a health education class of the same duration to determine if it improves depressive symptoms among older people living with HIV. Participants will: Attend either a tai chi/qigong class twice a week for 12 weeks or a health education class of the same duration delivered via Zoom. Each class will be 45-60 minutes in length. Participate in 3 separate interviewer-administered interviews: at the time of enrollment, 3 months after the last class, and 9 months after the last class. Keep a tracking log of their home practice of tai chi/qigong (only participants in the intervention group). Use a biosensor (an earlobe sensor or chest strap) to measure their heart variability. Go to their local lab (e.g., Quest or Labcorp) for blood draw at the time of enrollment and at 9 month post intervention (this will only be a subset of participants).
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
- In order to be eligible to participate in this study, an individual must meet all of the following criteria:
- The ability to provide consent assessed by the GAIN Cognitive Impairment Scale
- Provision of signed and dated informed consent form
- Must be 50 - 75 years old.
- Must have been diagnosed with HIV by a healthcare professional (status confirmed at baseline by an uploaded picture of a recent lab report or medication bottle with name),
- Must have reliable internet access,
- Must have a smart phone
- No substantial experience (regular weekly practice for more than 3 months in the past 12 months) with mind-body interventions,
- Willing to participate for the length of the 12-week intervention and follow up assessments (a total of 12 months).
- Must report stable housing for the past 60 days and the next 60 days;
- Must have mild to moderate depressive symptoms (a score more than 5 but less than 19 on the PHQ-9 scale)
- Must speak and understand English
Exclusion criteria
- An individual who meets any of the following criteria will be excluded from participation in this study:
- Reports high risk for suicide based on the CCSR screening tool.
- Has participated in a study on mental health in the last 12 months.
- Currently exercising at least 150 minutes a week
Where
- Miami, Florida
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 Sep 8, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations