Active not recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Making Memory Better for Seniors With Mild Cognitive Impairment

This study is exploring a new way to help older adults who have mild cognitive impairment (MCI). MCI means you have some memory and thinking problems that are more than normal ageing, but not as severe as dementia. Researchers want to see if a special group 'brain training' program can improve memory. This program focuses on every day memory challenges, like remembering appointments or where you put your keys. It also teaches problem-solving skills to help people cope better. The study is designed to be very practical and includes people who might also have mild mood changes, making it more like real-life situations. The main goal is to find out if this training is possible to do and if it truly helps people improve their memory in daily life.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Nova Scotia Health Authority

Enrolment target

Start

05 Dec 2011

Estimated completion

05 Dec 2025

Mild Cognitive Impairment

What is this study about?

This study is investigating a new type of support for people who are experiencing mild cognitive impairment (MCI). MCI means you might have some issues with memory, thinking, or making decisions that are more noticeable than what's typical for your age, but these changes aren't severe enough to affect your daily life too much, like in dementia.

The researchers are testing a special memory training program delivered in a group setting. Unlike some traditional memory exercises, this program is designed to be very practical. It focuses on helping people with the kinds of memory problems they face every day, such as forgetting names, appointments, or where they left household items. It also teaches useful ways to solve problems related to memory difficulties.

By focusing on these real-life situations and even including people who might also have some mild anxiety or low mood, the study aims to see if this brain training can genuinely make a difference to people's memory in their daily lives. The main goal is to find out if this method of training is both practical to offer and effective in helping people manage their memory better.

Key takeaways

This study is for people with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).
It involves group 'brain training' focusing on everyday memory.
The goal is to improve practical memory skills and problem-solving.
It aims to be realistic, including people with mild mood changes.
The study wants to see if this new training is possible and helpful.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to have received a diagnosis from a doctor that you have "Mild Cognitive Impairment" (MCI). This means that a medical professional has confirmed you have some memory changes that are more than normal ageing, but not dementia.

There are also some reasons why you wouldn't be able to take part. For instance, if you have a diagnosis of dementia, or a history of certain brain conditions that affect thinking, you wouldn't be eligible.

Also, if you've had problems with alcohol or drug abuse in the past, or a long-lasting serious mental health condition, or currently have more significant feelings of depression or anxiety, this study might not be suitable for you.

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.

I have been diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).
I have not been diagnosed with dementia.
I don't have a history of serious brain conditions affecting thinking.
I don't have a history of alcohol or drug abuse.
I am not currently experiencing severe depression or anxiety.

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The study involves taking part in a cognitive training group. This means you'll meet with others and a trained professional for sessions that focus on memory exercises and problem-solving skills. The study aims to see how well these groups work and how effective they are. It does not mention any specific visits, assessments, medication, or follow-up plans, nor the total duration of participation.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could potentially help improve your everyday memory skills and give you new ways to manage memory challenges. As with any group activity, there's a small chance of experiencing some mild stress or frustration during the training. However, you have the right to leave the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Neuropsychology Service, Nova Scotia Hospital
Verified postcode
Dartmouth, Canada

Common questions

What is Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)?

MCI means you have some changes in your memory or thinking that are more than typical ageing, but not as severe as dementia. You can still manage your daily life.

What is 'cognitive training'?

It's like 'brain training' where you learn and practice exercises and strategies to improve your memory and thinking skills.

Will this training cure MCI?

No, this study is looking to see if the training can help improve memory in daily life, not to cure MCI itself.

Do I need a diagnosis of MCI to join?

Yes, you must have a formal diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment from a doctor to be eligible for this study.

Will I have to take any new medicines?

The study description doesn't mention any new medications as part of the intervention; it focuses on cognitive training.