Working memory training for older adults living with HIV

A Feasibility Study of Working Memory Training for People Aging with HIV

Early Phase 1 Interventional Northeastern University · NCT06699927

This study is testing whether fun memory games can help older adults living with HIV improve their thinking skills compared to those who don't have HIV.

Quick facts

PhaseEarly Phase 1
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages50 Years to 85 Years
SexAll
SponsorNortheastern University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Boston, Massachusetts)
Trial IDNCT06699927 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the feasibility of implementing working memory training specifically for people aging with HIV (PAWHIV). It employs a randomized controlled trial design to compare the effects of gamified versus non-gamified working memory tasks on cognitive performance. The trial aims to assess the acceptability of these interventions and estimate their potential effectiveness in improving cognitive health among PAWHIV compared to aging adults without HIV. By utilizing a comprehensive battery of cognitive assessments, the study seeks to tailor interventions to meet the unique cognitive challenges faced by this population.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 50-85 who are living with HIV and do not have significant psychological or neurological conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with formal diagnoses of dementia, severe anxiety, or severe depression are unlikely to benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to targeted cognitive interventions that improve memory and cognitive health in older adults living with HIV.

How similar studies have performed: While there is ongoing research in cognitive training for aging populations, this specific approach targeting PAWHIV is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 50-85 years of age
* Able to understand and speak English and follow study procedures
* Does not have a psychological or neurological condition that would prevent being able to give consent to participate
* Not currently involved in any other cognitive or memory training studies

Exclusion Criteria:

* Formal diagnosis of dementia or other neurological disease, including Mild cognitive impairment.
* A final total score below 17 on Montreal Cognitive Assessment - Blind (telephone) version.
* Score of 10 or more on the Generalized Anxiety Questionnaire (GAD7; Spitzer et al., 2006, Archives of Internal Medicine), indicating presence of moderate or severe anxiety
* Score of 9 or more on Geriatric depression scale (GDS15; Yesavage et al., 1982) indicating presence of moderate or severe depression
* Abnormal visual acuity prohibitive of tablet-based training.
* Physical handicap (motor or perceptual) that would impede training procedures.
* Medical illness requiring treatment and/or significant absences during the study timeline.
* Current evidence or 2-yr history of seizures, focal brain lesion, or head injury with loss of consciousness.
* Current alcohol consumption exceeds 14 drinks per week.
* Self-reported illicit drug use.

Where this trial is running

Boston, Massachusetts

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 Cognitive Change
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.