A program to improve communication for couples dealing with mild cognitive impairment

Keeping on Course: A Communication-Focused Psychoeducation Program for Dyads Coping With Mild Cognitive Impairment

Not applicable Interventional Emory University · NCT05423912

This study tests a new online program to help couples dealing with mild cognitive impairment improve their communication and support each other better.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment48 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorEmory University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Atlanta, Georgia)
Trial IDNCT05423912 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

The Keeping on Course program aims to develop and evaluate a psychoeducational intervention designed for dyads coping with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This program focuses on enhancing communication skills and strategies to help both the individual with MCI and their care partner regain a sense of agency in their lives. By addressing the emotional and relational challenges that arise following an MCI diagnosis, the program seeks to provide support and coping mechanisms for both parties involved. The intervention will be delivered online, allowing for flexibility and accessibility for participants.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment and their care partners who live together.

Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or those who cannot participate in the program due to language barriers or lack of internet access may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve the quality of life and communication for patients with mild cognitive impairment and their caregivers.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in psychoeducational interventions for cognitive impairment, suggesting that this approach may be beneficial.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Either a person with MCI, defined as a score of 23-27 on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) or a score of 19-25 on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), or an MCI care partner
* Can read, speak, and understand English
* Have internet connectivity and a separate zoom-enabled device for each dyad member
* Dyads must live together, as this will provide sufficient opportunity for intervention homework and communication practice activities

Exclusion Criteria:

* Individuals who are not yet adults (infants, children, teenagers)
* Pregnant women
* Prisoners
* Individuals who are not able to clearly understand and speak English
* Those living with MCI will need to successfully complete a capacity to consent survey to be included in the study

Where this trial is running

Atlanta, Georgia

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Mild Cognitive Impairment
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.