Using technology and robotics to help older adults with mild cognitive impairment

A Socio-Technological Intervention in Community-Based Healthcare for Individuals With Mild Cognitive Impairment (DHEAL-COM-MCI)

Not applicable Interventional Istituto Nazionale di Ricovero e Cura per Anziani · NCT06984367

This study is testing whether using a tablet with brain games and a social robot can help older adults with mild cognitive impairment feel better and slow down their memory decline.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages65 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorIstituto Nazionale di Ricovero e Cura per Anziani Academic / other
Locations1 site (Ancona)
Trial IDNCT06984367 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This intervention aims to slow cognitive decline and improve the well-being of elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) through a combination of cognitive stimulation and socio-technical tools. The study will involve 50 older adults who will be randomly assigned to either an experimental group, which will use a cognitive rehabilitation software and a social robot, or a control group that will engage in usual care activities. The experimental group will receive a tablet with the BRAINER platform for cognitive exercises and interact with the NAOv6 robot, designed to support cognitive engagement through social interaction. The trial is structured as a single-blind randomized controlled trial to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of this approach.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are older adults diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment who meet specific cognitive assessment criteria.

Not a fit: Patients with significant mobility issues, severe cognitive impairment, or certain medical conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could enhance cognitive function and quality of life for patients with mild cognitive impairment.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies utilizing technology and robotics for cognitive rehabilitation have shown promising results, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment;
* MoCA ranged 21 - 27;
* Geriatric Depression Scale 5 items (GDS-5items) ≤ 1

Exclusion Criteria:

* Use of active implantable or non-implantable medical devices;
* Nickel allergy;
* Myocardial infarction or stroke within 6 months;
* Painful arthritis, spinal stenosis, amputation, painful foot lesions, or neuropathy that limits balance and mobility;
* Uncontrolled hypertension;
* Pacemaker or implantable cardioverter defibrillator;
* Metastatic cancer or immunosuppressive therapy;
* Significant vision or hearing disturbances.

Where this trial is running

Ancona

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 Mild Cognitive ImpairmentOlder Peoplesocial assistive roboticstechnology acceptance
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.