RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07424443

Pilot Study of a Brain Health Program in Senior Centers

Prevention Starts Here: Piloting My Healthy Brain in Massachusetts Councils on Aging

Sponsor

Massachusetts General Hospital

Enrollment

60 participants

Start Date

Mar 3, 2026

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Lifestyle (Sedentary Behavior and Physical Activity)Lifestyle Risk Reduction Memory Loss (Excluding Dementia)Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors Dementia Prevention

Summary

The investigators will evaluate a brain health programs in older adults with subjective cognitive decline. The primary aim of the study is to determine the credibility, expectancy, feasibility, acceptability, appropriateness, fidelity, and satisfaction of the program delivered in the senior centers.

Eligibility

Min Age: 50 Years

Inclusion Criteria6

Aged ≥ 50
Subjective cognitive decline (SCD; e.g., forgetting information, getting lost, and repeating oneself)
Able to self-identify at least 1 modifiable lifestyle risk factors for dementia to change during the program (physically inactive, poor sleep, non-adherence to Mediterranean diet, alcohol use, tobacco use, socially isolated or lonely, mental inactivity)
Absence of significant cognitive impairment (assessed using Short Blessed Test71 ≤ 9)
Self-reported English proficiency/literacy
Ability and willingness to participate and complete all study-related activities

Exclusion Criteria5

Dementia or other neurodegenerative disease per patient self-report or disclosure
Psychosis, uncontrolled schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, uncontrolled bipolar disorder, or uncontrolled substance dependence/abuse
Active self-report of suicidal ideation / high risk of suicide
Serious medical illness expected to worsen during the study
Self-reported safety issues with initiating lifestyle change

Interventions

BEHAVIORALMy Healthy Brain

My Healthy Brain is an 8-week group program delivered via 90-minute meetings led by a clinical psychologist pr trainee. It provides education on the link between dementia and lifestyle factors, including poor exercise, sleep, diet/nutrition, mental and social stimulation, alcohol, and smoking. My Healthy Brain participants learn evidence-based mindfulness and behavior change skills to address common barriers to healthy habits, such as stress and setting achievable goals. My Healthy Brain participants wear an activity watch to monitor lifestyle changes during the program.