Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 60 and up

A program to support older cancer patients through social networks

Official title: A Single Arm Pilot Trial of a Social Network Intervention (SONATA) for Older Patients With Cancer

Run by University of Rochester · NCT05745038 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new support program that helps older cancer patients connect with others during their treatment to see if they find it helpful and if they stick with it.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages60 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment330 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity of Rochester
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Rochester, New York)
StatusRecruiting
StartedNovember 29, 2023
Main results expectedDecember 31, 2027
Study endsJune 30, 2028
Registry record updatedSeptember 10, 2026
Trial IDNCT05745038 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are individuals aged 60 and older with a diagnosis of advanced or likely incurable cancer who can communicate in English.

Probably not a fit

Patients with psychiatric or cognitive impairments that interfere with participation may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This pilot study evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of the SONATA program, a social network support intervention designed for older individuals undergoing treatment for advanced cancer. The program consists of six coaching sessions over approximately four months, with the first five sessions occurring every one to two weeks and the final session held one to two months later. The study aims to determine if at least 70% of enrolled patients complete three sessions and if the average acceptability score meets or exceeds four on a five-point scale.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could enhance the support and adherence to treatment for older cancer patients, potentially improving their overall outcomes.

How similar studies have gone: While this approach is relatively novel, similar interventions in geriatric oncology have shown promise in enhancing patient support and adherence.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Patient

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age ≥60 years
2. A diagnosis of advanced or likely incurable cancer, as determined by the primary oncologist
3. Able to speak English
4. Able to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

1\) Any psychiatric or cognitive impairments interfering with participation as determined by the primary oncology team

Network Members:

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age ≥18 years
2. Identified as a network member by patient subjects (up to 10 network members)
3. Able to speak English
4. Able to provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

None

Where it's running

  • University of Rochester
    Rochester, New York, United States
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.