Exploring the effects of music lessons on cognitive health in older adults
Feasibility and Acceptability of Music Training Programs Among Older Adults Living with Mild Cognitive Impairment: a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
NA · University of Rochester · NCT06866327
This study is testing if music lessons can help older adults with mild cognitive impairment feel happier and improve their memory.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 18 (estimated) |
| Ages | 60 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Rochester (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Rochester, New York) |
| Trial ID | NCT06866327 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This pilot clinical trial aims to evaluate the acceptability of two music programs among older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Participants will engage in 12 weekly sessions of piano or music lessons, alternating between group and individual formats, while also practicing at home. The study will assess participants' enjoyment of the programs, retention in the study, and perceived benefits on emotional well-being and memory. The findings will inform a larger future trial investigating the potential of music training to slow cognitive decline and enhance quality of life for those at risk of Alzheimer's disease.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are English-speaking adults aged 60 and older with a medical diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment.
Not a fit: Patients with significant musical knowledge or those currently engaged in formal music activities may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a novel, engaging intervention to help slow cognitive decline and improve emotional well-being in older adults at risk for dementia.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using music for cognitive health is promising, this specific pilot study is novel and has not been extensively tested in this context.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Aged ≥ 60 years * English-speaking * Community-dwelling * Medical diagnosis of MCI by a physician or research diagnostic criteria for MCI, defined by having Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), with a cutoff of 20- 25 (further adjusted for racial/ethnic differences) * Capable to consent as identified by the University of California, San Diego Brief Assessment of Capacity to Consent (UBACC) * No severe psychiatric condition (e.g., bipolar disorder) Exclusion Criteria: * Demonstrate musicality knowledge, as assessed by the Musicality Assessment developed by the study team * Currently participating in a formal music activity (performance, classes, lessons, etc.) * Major impairment in eyesight or hearing that precludes music reading, hearing, or engagement in the class * Any difficulty using a keyboard (portable electric piano) due to pain, neuropathy, tremor, or upper finger/hand/limb injury
Where this trial is running
Rochester, New York
- School of Nursing — Rochester, New York, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Rose Lin, PhD
- Email: sinyirose_lin@urmc.rochester.edu
- Phone: (585) 276-6833
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.
Conditions: Mild Cognitive Impairment, Memory Disorders, Age Related, Memory Decline, music, memory, mood, emotion, well-being