Tai Chi/Qigong for Subsyndromal Depression and Cognition in Older Age Bipolar Disorder

Efficacy of Tai Chi/Qigong for Subsyndromal Depression and Cognition in Older Age Bipolar Disorder: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial With an Active Control

It is expected that by 2030, the percentage of patients with bipolar disorder (BD) in Canada over 60 years of age will exceed 50%. In this population, poor cognition and persistent sub-threshold depressive symptoms are particularly common, difficult to treat, associated with increased mood episodes, and poor daily functioning. Mind-body interventions have increasingly been found to be effective in treating several psychiatric condition including BD. A few pilot studies examining mindfulness-based intervention in younger adult BD have been promising for depressive symptoms, but some pilot research suggest that patients with older age bipolar disorder (OABD) may benefit more from moving mindfulness. The investigators will conduct a 12-week randomized controlled trial to assess whether tai-chi/qigong will be associated with 1) greater reduction in depressive symptoms, and 2) greater improved cognition, in comparison to a light exercise active control condition, 12- and 24-weeks from baseline, in BD patients aged 40+.

Inclusion Criteria:

• aged greater than or equal to 40 years
• history of diagnosis of bipolar I or II disorder
• access to a computer with a functioning camera, microphone, and ability to run Zoom software
• English or French speaking
• ability to give informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Young Mania Rating Scale score > 5
• current clinician diagnosis of substance abuse, unless currently in complete remission
• risk of suicide as assessed by a score above 3 on item 10 of Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating Scale
• participation or plan to participate in any other concurrent psychosocial group program during course of study
• unstable psychiatric medication (less than 4-weeks since commencement)