Background: The effectiveness of interventions used to treat depression is often assessed through randomized controlled trials. However, inconsistency in the reporting of outcomes creates challenges for the interpretation of results, and limits utility in clinical decision-making. We will conduct a methodological review of the literature for outcomes reported in geriatric depression trials published in the last 10 years.
Methods: Trials evaluating any intervention for older adults with depression will be located using electronic databases. Reviewers will conduct screening and data extraction of eligible trials independently and in duplicate.
Analysis: Outcomes will be mapped to a core-outcome domain framework, and characteristics associated with trials and outcomes will be summarized.
Expected findings: We anticipate inconsistency in outcome measurement across geriatric depression trials. Our review aims to inform consensus efforts on outcome reporting for this clinical population.