RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Social & Affective Cognition in Alzheimer's Disease & Associated Disorders

This study explores why some people with Alzheimer's disease and related conditions might act differently, for example, by being easily distracted or losing interest in things. Scientists believe this could be connected to how well they understand social situations and other people's feelings. Up until now, no one has specifically looked at this link. Researchers want to see if there's a connection between social understanding, emotions, and behaviour. They will also look at the brain to see which areas are involved in these processes. The hope is to better understand these conditions and improve support for individuals and their families.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University Hospital, Lille

Enrolment target

120

Start

28 Jan 2025

Estimated completion

02 May 2028

Alzheimer's Disease Frontotemporal Degeneration (Semantic & Behavioral Variants)

What is this study about?

This study is called 'Social & Affective Cognition in Alzheimer's Disease & Associated Disorders'. That's a bit of a mouthful, but it simply means researchers are trying to understand how people with Alzheimer's disease and similar brain conditions understand social situations and emotions. They want to find out why some people with these conditions might develop new behaviours, such as acting impulsively, seeming uninterested, or having trouble making social decisions.

Sometimes, the changes in someone's brain don't fully explain these new behaviours. Researchers think it might be because of difficulties with 'social and emotional understanding' – in other words, how we interpret social clues, understand feelings, and react in social settings. This study is the first to specifically look at the link between these social and emotional skills and the everyday behaviours of people with Alzheimer's and related conditions.

The main goal is to see if there's a clear connection between how well someone understands social cues and emotions, and the social behaviours they show. The study will also use brain scans to identify which parts of the brain are involved in these processes. By better understanding these links, doctors might be able to offer better help and support to people living with these conditions and their families.

Key takeaways

This study is exploring why social skills and emotions might change in Alzheimer's.
It aims to link social understanding with everyday behaviours and brain areas.
You won't receive new medication; the focus is on understanding the condition.
Participation involves assessments of social skills, emotional responses, and brain scans.
A study partner (e.g., family member) needs to complete some forms.
Your travel costs can be reimbursed if needed.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for both men and women between the ages of 40 and 85. To take part, you need to be registered with the French Social Security system. It's also important that you can speak, read, and write in French.

You'll need a 'study partner' to join, which could be a family member or close friend. This partner will need to fill out some forms for the study. If you or your study partner can't drive, the study will help cover your travel costs.

There are also reasons why someone might not be able to join. For example, if you can't have an MRI scan, have severe uncorrected hearing or vision problems, or have another serious brain condition like a brain tumour or Parkinson's disease, this study might not be right for you. If a doctor feels you have other serious health issues, drink too much alcohol, use drugs, or might struggle to follow the study's instructions, you might not be eligible.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 40 and 85 years old?
Are you registered with the French Social Security?
Can you speak, read, and write French fluently?
Do you have a family member or close friend who could be your study partner?
Can you have an MRI scan safely (e.g., no metal implants)?
Are your eyesight and hearing problems, if any, corrected by glasses or hearing aids?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

This is a research study, not a treatment study, so you won't be given any new medication. The information provided doesn't specify exactly what taking part involves in terms of visits, assessments, or overall duration. However, based on the summary, it's highly likely you would undergo assessments that look at your social understanding and emotional responses. There would also be brain scans (MRI) to see which parts of the brain are active.

Your study partner will also be asked to complete several forms, likely about your behaviour and daily life. You should expect to have appointments at a research centre, and if you or your study partner need help with travel, those costs will be covered.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study might help researchers better understand Alzheimer's disease and similar conditions, which could lead to better support in the future. However, there's no direct personal benefit expected from taking part. Potential risks might include the experience of having an MRI scan, though these are generally considered safe. There's always a right to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this won't affect your medical care.

Locations (1)

Lille University Hospital
Verified postcode
Lille, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What is 'social and emotional understanding'?

It's about how well we understand social situations, other people's feelings, and how we react in social settings.

Will I receive any new medicine in this study?

No, this study is about understanding the condition, not testing new treatments or medicines.

What is an MRI scan?

An MRI scan is a type of brain scan that uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of your brain, without using X-rays.

Do I need to live in France to take part?

Yes, you need to be registered with the French Social Security and be able to speak, read, and write French.

What is a 'study partner'?

A study partner is often a family member or close friend who knows you well and can provide information about you for the study.

How to find out more

Thibaud LEBOUVIER, MD, PhD

thibaud.lebouvier@chu-lille.fr 3.20.44.60.21 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.