Smartphone App for Cognitive Impairment
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a smartphone app designed to support cognitive health by engaging users in activities such as drawing, Tai Chi, meditation, and prayer reading. The researchers aim to determine if the app can improve mood, increase physical activity, and boost social connections. The trial seeks individuals aged 50 and older who receive primary assistance and own a smartphone, along with their caregivers. Participants will use the utmbHealthyBrain Smartphone App three times a week for four weeks and provide feedback on their experience. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance cognitive health and well-being.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on using a smartphone app, so it's unlikely that medication changes are required.
What prior data suggests that this smartphone app is safe for cognitive impairment?
Research shows that the utmbHealthyBrain smartphone app is generally safe for use. The app includes three activities: drawing, Tai-Chi and meditation, and prayer reading. These common activities are likely safe for most users.
Studies on similar apps designed to aid thinking and memory have found them to be well-tolerated, with users not reporting any serious issues. Additionally, since this app doesn't collect personal information, the risk to privacy is low.
In summary, based on current evidence, the utmbHealthyBrain app appears safe to use. Joining the trial is likely low-risk.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
The utmbHealthyBrain Smartphone App is unique because it leverages technology to address cognitive impairment in a user-friendly way. Unlike traditional treatments that might involve medications or extensive therapy sessions, this app offers an accessible and convenient method for users to engage in cognitive exercises. Researchers are excited because it allows for real-time data collection and personalized feedback, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of cognitive interventions while fitting seamlessly into daily life. Plus, the app's ability to track mood changes and gather feedback can provide valuable insights into treatment outcomes, making it a promising tool in cognitive health management.
What evidence suggests that the utmbHealthyBrain Smartphone App is effective for cognitive impairment?
Research has shown that smartphone apps can enhance thinking skills in people with mild memory problems. Notably, 89% of studies have reported positive outcomes for improving memory and thinking through mobile apps. One study found that a smartphone program significantly aided older adults with mild memory issues. These apps often feature activities like drawing, meditation, and social interaction, which can boost mood and mental activity. In this trial, participants will use the utmbHealthyBrain app, which combines these activities and may support emotional balance, movement, and social connections.15678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Wei-Chen Lee, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals experiencing dementia or cognitive impairment due to aging. Participants should be comfortable using a smartphone and willing to engage with an app designed to promote emotional stability, physical activity, and social engagement over a 6-week period.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Introduction
Introduction session where participants receive instructions on using the smartphone app
Intervention
Participants use the smartphone app at least three times a week for four weeks
Feedback
Participants complete a post-intervention mood test and feedback survey
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for any long-term effects of the intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- utmbHealthyBrain Smartphone App
Trial Overview
The utmbHealthyBrain smartphone app is being tested for its feasibility in community settings. The app includes activities like drawing, Tai-Chi and meditation, prayer reading, and has a 'share' function for user interaction.
How Is the Trial Designed?
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Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Twenty pairs of care recipients and caregivers (total: 40 people) will be recruited to the study and required to download the app to their phone and use it three times a week for four weeks. Tools to collect data include (1) one participation log, (2) two mood tests before and after the intervention, and (3) one feedback survey after the intervention.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston
Lead Sponsor
Citations
Feasibility of A Smartphone Application Intervention in ...
The app is called utmbHealthyBrain and it has three activities: (1) drawing, (2) Tai-Chi and meditation, and (3) prayer reading. It also has a " ...
Mobile Application Applied for Cognitive Rehabilitation
Overall, 16 of the 18 studies (88.88%) demonstrated positive clinical implications for cognitive function after using cognitive rehabilitation ...
Efficacy of smartphone application-based multi-domain ...
The efficacy of cognitive intervention in mild cognitive impairment (MCI): a meta-analysis of outcomes on neuropsychological measures.
Smartphone Applications Can Serve as Effective Cognitive ...
The purpose of this opinion article is to discuss the potential of smartphone applications (apps) for the enhancement of cognitive functions of older people.
5.
stories.tamu.edu
stories.tamu.edu/news/2025/03/25/smartphone-based-program-helps-slow-cognitive-decline-in-older-adults/Smartphone-Based Program Helps Slow Cognitive Decline in ...
Study finds app significantly improves cognitive function in assisted living residents with mild impairment.
Smartphone App for Cognitive Impairment
This trial is for individuals experiencing dementia or cognitive impairment due to aging. Participants should be comfortable using a smartphone and willing to ...
Barriers to Using Mobile App-Based Cognitive Testing in ...
The purpose of this study was to investigate barriers of older adults with probable AD toward using mobile app-based cognitive assessment.
Understanding Caregiver Challenges: A Comprehensive ...
This study aimed to explore key challenges faced by caregivers and the resources they need to address their caregiving burden.
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