Music improvisation training to improve cognitive function in older adults
Impact of Music Improvisation Training on Cognitive Function in Older Adults
This study is testing if music improvisation training can help older adults with mild cognitive impairment improve their thinking skills and self-control.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 238 (estimated) |
| Ages | 60 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of California, San Francisco Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (San Francisco, California and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06721390 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This project investigates how music improvisation training can enhance self-regulation and cognitive function in older adults, particularly those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The study aims to compare the effects of improvisation training against control groups, focusing on changes in prefrontal brain networks and cognitive engagement. Participants will engage in piano improvisation and music listening activities, with the hypothesis that these interventions will lead to significant cognitive benefits. The study addresses the need for innovative cognitive engagement strategies in aging populations.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 60 and over who live independently, have mild cognitive impairment, and possess limited formal music training.
Not a fit: Patients with a medical diagnosis of dementia or those currently taking psychoactive medications may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could improve cognitive function and self-regulation in older adults, potentially delaying the progression of cognitive impairment.
How similar studies have performed: While music interventions have shown promise in cognitive enhancement, this specific approach using improvisation is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 60 and over * Living independently in the community * Sufficient visual and hearing acuity (age-related to normal hearing loss, with assistive devices) as measured by audiometer * Less than three years of formal music training (as indicated by private music lessons does not include group or ensemble classes) and not currently reading or engaging in music performance * English fluency rated fairly well to well * MoCA score of 22-30 or diagnosis of "mild cognitive impairment * Not currently taking psychoactive medications, antidepressants, or sleep medications that could adversely affect cognitive abilities. Exclusion Criteria: * Medical diagnosis of dementia (any etiology) * Inability to move the hands or use all 10 digits (extensive arthritis, neuropathy, missing digits) * Score \< 22 on MoCA * Current (but not prior) severe psychiatric disorder, serious medical condition (e.g., stroke, TIA) that would interfere with participation in the study * Poor English fluency * Musician or previously trained in jazz improvisation, more than three years of formal music instruction or training and/or currently engaged in musical performance * Plans to move out of the area within six months
Where this trial is running
San Francisco, California and 1 other locations
- Potrero Hill Neighborhood House — San Francisco, California, United States (Recruiting)
- Dr. George W. Davis Senior Center — San Francisco, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Julene Johnson, PhD — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Julene Johnson, PhD
- Email: Julene.Johnson@ucsf.edu
- Phone: 415-476-1109
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.