Using music therapy and social work via telehealth to improve well-being in older adults
A Pilot Study to Evaluate the Effectiveness of a Collaborative Music Therapy and Social Work Telehealth Framework to Address the Well-Being of Community- Dwelling Older Adults
This study is testing whether combining music therapy and social work through telehealth can help older adults feel less lonely and improve their overall well-being.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Kentucky Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Lexington, Kentucky and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06219148 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of a telehealth intervention combining music therapy and social work support aimed at enhancing the well-being of older adults, particularly those with and without dementia. The research focuses on outcomes such as reduced loneliness, improved cognition, and the perceived quality of services received. By addressing barriers to accessing community and health-related services, this pilot study aims to provide a collaborative framework that can be beneficial for older adults facing challenges due to aging and social distancing measures. The study builds on previous feasibility work that assessed the acceptability and logistics of delivering these services remotely.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are English-speaking adults aged 65 and older residing in Kentucky who are either familiar with digital technology or have a helper to assist them.
Not a fit: Patients with substance use disorders or significant sensory impairments that interfere with using Zoom may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve the emotional and cognitive well-being of older adults, enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results using telehealth interventions for older adults, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * age 65 or older * English-speaking * reside in Kentucky * willing to receive support from the research team on how to access Zoom (as needed) * EITHER a) have familiarity using digital technology and/or a video conferencing app such as Zoom, FaceTime, or Facebook Messenger, OR b) have a family member or friend who can facilitate Zoom access (i.e., "helper"). Exclusion Criteria: * substance use disorder, which could present a confounding variable relative to the aims; * significant sensory impairment that interferes with Zoom use * current music therapy and/or social work case manager recipient HELPERS: facilitate participation by older adults who are unfamiliar with using video conferencing technology and/or who lack consent capacity. Helper Inclusion Criteria: * at least 18 years old * cognitively unimpaired * live with or be able to go to the older adult's residence to assist them in participating in the study. Helper Exclusion Criteria: * under 18 years old * cognitively impaired * unable to assist the older adult in participating in the study for any reason
Where this trial is running
Lexington, Kentucky and 1 other locations
- University of Kentucky — Lexington, Kentucky, United States (Recruiting)
- Saint Louis University — Saint Louis, Missouri, United States (Not_yet_recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Alaine E Reschke-Hernandez, PhD — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Alaine E Reschke-Hernandez, PhD
- Email: Alaine.ReschkeHernandez@uky.edu
- Phone: 859-257-4536
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.