This multicentre, prospective observational cohort study (n=45) in China is assessing the effectiveness and safety of dexmedetomidine and esketamine combined infusion in older adults with difficult-to-treat depression and comorbid insomnia. The study enrols both men and women aged 60 to 85 years, with treatment-resistant depression and insomnia. As an observational real-world study, it does not include an intervention group with randomised allocation or a comparator arm; rather, it follows patients receiving clinical care in routine practice. Primary outcomes are the Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), indicating that the trial is focusing on changes in depressive symptoms and sleep quality. Secondary assessments include suicidal ideation measured by the BSI-CV and anxiety symptoms measured by the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA). No formal phase is specified. Overall, this study is designed to provide real-world evidence on whether combined dexmedetomidine and esketamine infusion may be a useful and safe approach for older patients with persistent depression and insomnia in a Chinese clinical setting.