Colleen Hanlon, Ph.D.: Pioneering Advances in Late-Life Depression Treatment at BrainsWay
As the baby boomer generation ages, the “silver tsunami” is reshaping the demographic landscape of the United States. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of Americans over age 65 surged by 13 million between 2010 and 2020, marking the fastest growth rate since the late 19th century. This demographic shift brings with it a host of public health challenges, most notably the rising prevalence of late-life depression. With its complex causes and often underrecognized symptoms, late-life depression poses significant challenges for healthcare providers, making the work of experts like Dr. Colleen Hanlon increasingly vital.
Understanding Late-Life Depression
Late-life depression is characterized by the onset of depressive symptoms in individuals aged 65 and older who have no prior history of depression. The causes are multifaceted, encompassing biological, psychological, and social factors. Bereavement, loss of social connections, and decreased independence can lead to feelings of loneliness and despair. These factors often interact, creating a cycle where one issue exacerbates another. For instance, a physical illness that limits mobility can lead to depression, which in turn reduces the likelihood of engaging in physical activity, further impacting mental health.
Compounding the issue is the phenomenon of polypharmacy, where older adults take multiple medications, increasing the risk of adverse effects and complicating treatment. Studies indicate that nearly 65% of older adults in the U.S. are affected by polypharmacy, with a significant percentage of those experiencing depression. This complexity is further heightened by the symptomatic overlap between depression and dementia, often leading to misdiagnosis and inadequate treatment.
Current Challenges in Treating Late-Life Depression
The rise in late-life depression underscores the urgent need for effective, evidence-based treatment options. Traditional approaches, such as pharmacotherapy with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), often fall short for older patients due to altered metabolic rates and a high rate of non-response. Response rates to antidepressant treatments can vary significantly, and the risk of side effects and drug interactions complicates their use.
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is another treatment option, but its invasiveness and potential side effects make it less appealing for older adults. As a result, there is a pressing need for alternative treatments that are both safe and effective for this vulnerable population.
Expanding Options for Older Patients
One promising alternative is Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Deep TMS), a noninvasive treatment modality that has shown efficacy in treating depression across various age groups. Unlike traditional TMS, Deep TMS can penetrate deeper and broader areas of the brain, stimulating millions of neurons. This innovative approach utilizes a patented magnetic H-coil within a cushioned helmet, allowing patients to receive treatment comfortably while engaging in everyday activities.
Since its introduction, Deep TMS has been successful in treating patients aged 22 to 68, and recent studies have expanded its FDA label to include older adults aged 68-86. This treatment can be used alone or in conjunction with medication and talk therapy, offering a versatile option for managing late-life depression.
Continued Innovation in Late-Life Care
As the U.S. population continues to age, healthcare providers must explore and validate new treatments to address the mental health challenges that accompany aging. Innovations like Deep TMS represent a significant step forward in enhancing the quality of life for older adults suffering from late-life depression.
About Dr. Colleen A. Hanlon
Dr. Colleen A. Hanlon has been at the forefront of this critical field as the Vice President of Medical Affairs at BrainsWay since 2022. With 17 years of clinical research experience in TMS and brain imaging, Dr. Hanlon has made significant contributions to the understanding and treatment of psychiatric and neurologic disorders. Before joining BrainsWay, she led multidisciplinary clinical research programs at the Medical University of South Carolina and Wake Forest School of Medicine.
Dr. Hanlon’s impressive track record includes over 80 published articles, six authored book chapters, and more than 100 invited talks and educational sessions worldwide. Her pioneering work has garnered over $12 million in support from the National Institutes of Health, focusing on developing neural-circuit-based therapeutics for various psychiatric conditions.
Conclusion
As the landscape of mental health care evolves, the contributions of leaders like Dr. Colleen Hanlon are essential in addressing the complexities of late-life depression. By advancing innovative treatment options and advocating for the needs of older adults, Dr. Hanlon and her colleagues at BrainsWay are paving the way for a brighter future in mental health care for the aging population. With continued research and innovation, there is hope for enhancing not only the longevity but also the quality of life for countless older adults facing the challenges of depression.