Effects of choir training on older adults at risk for dementia
Using Music-Based Interventions to Improve the Quality of Life and Wellbeing of Older Adults With or at Risk of Alzheimer's Disease
This study is testing if joining a choir can help older adults at risk for dementia improve their hearing, communication, and overall well-being.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 66 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Southern California Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Los Angeles, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT06152211 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates how music engagement through choir training can impact the hearing, communication, and psychosocial well-being of older adults, particularly those at increased risk for dementia due to the presence of the APOE ε4 allele. Utilizing a randomized controlled trial design, the researchers will assess the effects of group music listening and choir participation on various cognitive and social outcomes. The study aims to address the dual challenges of age-related hearing loss and cognitive decline in the aging population.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults aged 65 and over with adequate visual and auditory acuity who are fluent in English and at risk for dementia.
Not a fit: Patients with severe hearing loss that cannot be corrected with aids, current severe psychiatric disorders, or significant cognitive impairment may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could enhance communication abilities and improve the overall quality of life for older adults at risk of dementia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for music-based interventions in improving cognitive and social outcomes in older adults, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Visual and Auditory Acuity: Adequate visual and auditory acuity, with correction if necessary. * Language Proficiency: Fluency in English to ensure complete testing. Exclusion Criteria: * Hearing Loss: Severe hearing loss not correctable with aids. * Neurological and Otologic Conditions: History of known neurological or otologic conditions. * Psychiatric Disorders: Current severe psychiatric disorders (past disorders not included). * Medical Conditions: Unstable or serious medical conditions that could limit participation in assessments or weekly meetings. * Cognitive Function: Impaired cognitive function, indicated by a score of less than 26 on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). * Music Training: Current or past professional music training, defined as 3 years of regular, formal practice, excluding typical educational curriculum music classes or singing in worship services.
Where this trial is running
Los Angeles, California
- University of Southern California — Los Angeles, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Assal Habibi, PhD
- Email: ahabibi@usc.edu
- Phone: 2137403588
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.