A program to support older cancer patients through social networks

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

Not applicable Interventional University of Rochester · NCT05745038

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

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment330 (estimated)
Ages60 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Rochester Academic / other
Locations1 site (Rochester, New York)
Trial IDNCT05745038 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

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

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

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

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Rochester, New York

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 Cancergeriatric oncology
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.