RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT06866327

Music for the Mind Study

Feasibility and Acceptability of Music Training Programs Among Older Adults Living with Mild Cognitive Impairment: a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Sponsor

University of Rochester

Enrollment

18 participants

Start Date

Feb 24, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)Memory Disorders, Age Related

Summary

The goal of this pilot clinical trial is to learn if older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) find two music programs equally acceptable. This pilot study will help researchers prepare for a future, large-scale clinical trial to learn if music training can slow cognitive decline and promote emotional well-being in those at risk for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The main questions this pilot study aims to answer are: * Do participants like the music programs? * Do participants stay enrolled in the study? * Do participants report perceived benefits of the programs for their emotional well-being or everyday memory? Participants will: * Participate in 12-weekly sessions of piano lessons or music lessons, with group and individual lessons alternating each week. * Have home practice in between lessons, with a keyboard or other instruments provided. * Keep a diary of their home practice and their mood before and after practice. * Participate in interviews before and after the 12-week programs.

Eligibility

Min Age: 60 Years

Inclusion Criteria6

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 Criteria4

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

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Interventions

BEHAVIORALPiano lessons

The program consists of 12-weekly piano lessons, alternating small group lessons and individual lessons each week. Individual lessons reinforce and help personalize what is instructed during group lessons. Lessons are tailored to help older adults with memory challenges learn note reading, finger positioning, and song playing. Participants are asked to practice at home in between lessons for 10 minutes per day, 5 times per week, with a keyboard and bench provided.

BEHAVIORALMusic Lessons

The program consists of 12-weekly music lessons, alternating small group lessons and individual lessons each week. Individual lessons reinforce and help personalize what is instructed during group lessons. Lessons are tailored to help older adults with memory challenges learn various instruments, engage in group playing during group lessons, and engage in music appreciation activities. Participants are asked to practice at home in between lessons for 10 minutes per day, 5 times per week, with instruments provided.