Beyond Ageing Project: A Study for the Prevention of Depression

• Status: Completed
• Trial end date: 2011-01-01
• Target enrollment: 0
• Participant gender: All

Summary

The purpose of this study is to determine whether folate and vitamin B12, physical activity and mental health literacy can prevent depression, and folate and vitamin B12 and physical activity can prevent cognitive impairment in older people. Also the study aims to assess the benefits for older people in improving their knowledge about mental health in relation to depression.

• Phase: Phase 2
• Accepts Healthy Volunteers?: No

Details

• Lead Sponsor: Australian National University
• Collaborators: Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing; Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Australia; University of Sydney
• Treatments: Folic Acid; Hydroxocobalamin; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B Complex; Vitamins

Criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged 65-74 years with some depressive symptoms, assessed using the Kessler 10 Psychological Distress Scale [K10] (Andrews & Slade, 2001)

Exclusion Criteria:

Any of the following:

• Those currently taking medication or receiving psychological treatment for depression

• A report of a medical diagnosis of bipolar disorder/mania

• History of epilepsy

• Diagnosed with cancer and/or on antifolate therapy

• Have a diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer's disease

• Are currently taking vitamin supplements containing folate, B2, B6 or B12 at a dose exceeding 25% of the recommended daily intake.

• Medical contradictions to exercise (e.g., significant orthopaedic problems or cardiovascular disease that would prevent regular aerobic exercise)

• Ongoing participation in regular aerobic exercise.