Cognitive Intervention with Leisure Activities for Cognitive Impairment
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to explore how certain activities can improve memory and attention in individuals who feel their memory is declining. Participants will engage in either language and music lessons (ENGAGE SPANISH/MUSIC) or educational programs with games and discussions (ENGAGE DISCOVERY). The trial seeks individuals who have noticed a decline in cognitive abilities and have internet access at home. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to research that could enhance cognitive health strategies.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the study team to get a clear answer.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research shows that the treatments in this trial, ENGAGE SPANISH/MUSIC and ENGAGE DISCOVERY, are generally safe and well-tolerated. Studies have found that music and language activities can improve thinking skills. Specifically, participating in music can slightly but meaningfully enhance cognitive abilities in older adults with mild memory issues. These activities are usually well-received and rarely cause serious side effects.
The ENGAGE DISCOVERY program includes learning activities like video games and group discussions. These activities are common and generally safe, focusing on mental exercise rather than physical risk. No evidence suggests major negative effects from these types of activities.
Overall, both ENGAGE SPANISH/MUSIC and ENGAGE DISCOVERY involve activities known to be low-risk and beneficial for brain health. Participants have generally handled these activities well in past research.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the ENGAGE SPANISH/MUSIC and ENGAGE DISCOVERY interventions for cognitive impairment because they offer a novel approach to enhancing brain health. Unlike traditional treatments that often focus on medication, these programs integrate cognitive strategies into engaging leisure activities like music, language lessons, and video games. This interactive and practical approach not only aims to improve attention and memory but also promotes active learning and social interaction, which are key components of healthy aging. These methods could potentially provide a more enjoyable and sustainable way to support cognitive function compared to conventional therapies.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for cognitive impairment?
Research shows that activities like playing music and learning new languages can improve brain function. In this trial, participants in the "ENGAGE SPANISH/MUSIC" arm will use cognitive strategies to enhance attention and memory skills through leisure activities, such as music or Spanish lessons, over four months. Studies have found that music can aid memory and improve the quality of life for those with memory issues. Additionally, learning Spanish or participating in music activities for four months has been linked to better focus and memory.
Meanwhile, the "ENGAGE DISCOVERY" program, another arm of this trial, includes learning activities and group discussions aimed at improving brain health and awareness about aging. These activities stimulate the brain and may enhance thinking skills in individuals who feel their memory is not as sharp as it once was.16789Who Is on the Research Team?
Sylvie Belleville, PhD
Principal Investigator
Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Geriatrie de Montreal
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with subjective cognitive decline who are worried about their memory, have certain scores on memory and cognition tests, can commit to the full intervention plus follow-ups, and have internet at home. Excluded are those with recent major surgery or serious illness, substance abuse issues, no study partner, insufficient English/French proficiency in Toronto/Montreal respectively, or extensive music training.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Participants engage in cognitive strategies to improve attention and memory skills and apply them in selected leisure activities over 4 months.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for cognitive and psychological health outcomes, including brain structure and function, 2 years from the start of the study.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- ENGAGE DISCOVERY
- ENGAGE SPANISH/MUSIC
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Geriatrie de Montreal
Lead Sponsor
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)
Collaborator
Rotman Research Institute at Baycrest
Collaborator