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Updated: Dec 2, 2025

Assessment of Long-term Depression Induction in Adult Cerebellar Slices
Published on: October 16, 2019
Neurocognitive functioning after electroconvulsive therapy in late-life depression: A 4-year prospective study
Jasmien Obbels1, Kristof Vansteelandt1, Filip Bouckaert2
1Academic Center for ECT and Neuromodulation (AcCENT, University Psychiatric Center KU Leuven, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Kortenberg, Belgium.
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) showed no significant long-term cognitive changes in older adults with late-life depression (LLD) at a group level. However, individual cognitive improvements and declines were observed over four years.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Geriatric Psychiatry
Background:
- Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is effective for late-life depression (LLD).
- Concerns persist regarding potential long-term cognitive side effects of ECT in older patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the long-term cognitive effects of ECT in patients with LLD.
- To assess cognitive changes from before ECT initiation up to four years post-treatment.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 41 patients aged 55+ with unipolar depression undergoing ECT was studied.
- Neuropsychological testing was conducted before ECT and at multiple intervals up to four years after treatment.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant cognitive changes were detected at the group level over the four-year follow-up period.
- Individual patient data revealed both cognitive decline and improvement, indicating variability.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive performance in LLD patients remains stable on average after ECT.
- While most older adults tolerate ECT without lasting cognitive impairment, individual experiences vary.
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