Games to Overcome Late Life Depression

Games to Overcome Late Life Depression

This is a pilot study divided into two phases. IN phase 1 (completed) participants will be randomized to receive 8 weeks of Problem Solving Therapy (PST) alone or 8 weeks of a cognitive training game called, Evolution (Evo) plus clinical management. In Phase 2 (now recruiting), participants will be randomized to Evo, PST, and a different cognitive training program called Words. Words is similar to Evo in that it is an adaptive training program and includes case management. IN both studies participants will be assessed for clinical and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) outcomes at baseline, 4 weeks and 8 weeks.

Evo is a computer game that targets parts of the brain (i.e. the cognitive control network) that we think may be associated with depressive symptoms. This study is exploratory and will inform future hypotheses the research team will test in subsequent research.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Between 60-80 years of age
2. Meets criteria for Major Depressive Disorder
3. Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) of 20 or greater
4. Mini Mental State Exam score of 24 or greater
5. Can speak and read English
6. Able to physically participate in the research protocol (e.g.: is not suffering from a terminal or highly disabling illness)
7. Can participate in MRI scans
8. Able to provide written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

1. History of psychosis, mania, or currently using or abusing illicit drugs or alcohol
2. Diagnosis of dementia
3. Taking cognitive enhancers
4. Change in or newly began taking psychiatric medication within the last 6 months
5. Pacemaker
6. Metal in the body that cannot be removed
7. Color blind
8. Movement disorder that prevents participation -