Using music to help people with dementia and their caregivers sleep better

Music-based Intervention for Insomnia in Persons Living with Dementia and their Caregivers

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-11082035

This study is exploring how using music can help people with Alzheimer's and their caregivers sleep better, especially for those in underrepresented communities, to improve their overall well-being without relying on medications.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11082035 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how music-based interventions can alleviate insomnia symptoms in individuals living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, as well as their caregivers. The approach focuses on non-pharmacologic methods, recognizing that music can be a safe and effective alternative to medications, especially since long-term memory for music is often preserved in these patients. The study aims to tailor music interventions specifically for underrepresented communities, addressing a gap in existing research. By improving sleep quality, the research seeks to enhance the overall well-being of both patients and their caregivers.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias who experience insomnia, along with their caregivers.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have insomnia or those with advanced stages of dementia where music interventions may not be effective may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve sleep quality and overall health for individuals with dementia and their caregivers.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using music interventions for sleep improvement in older adults, but this specific approach tailored for dementia patients is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Durham, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer's disease and related dementiaAlzheimer's disease and related disordersAlzheimer's disease or a related dementiaAlzheimer's disease or a related disorderAlzheimer's disease or related dementia
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.