Dementia Care Research and Psychosocial Factors

Area of Science:

• Gerontology and Cognitive Health
• Neuroscience of Aging
• Music Therapy and Intervention

Background:

• Older adults (65+) with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) face a significantly higher risk of progressing to dementia.
• Cognitively stimulating activities in later life are linked to a reduced risk of cognitive decline.
• Music-based training presents a potential strategy for late-life cognitive engagement, yet few interventions have been studied.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) assessing the feasibility and acceptability of a piano improvisation intervention.
• To determine if the piano improvisation training warrants further investigation in a larger, mechanistic RCT.

Main Methods:

• A 12-week group piano improvisation intervention was adapted and tested for feasibility and acceptability in older adults with and without MCI.
• Participants were individually randomized to either piano improvisation (experimental) or music listening (attention control) groups.
• Feasibility and acceptability were assessed using standard metrics, including attendance, satisfaction surveys, and focus groups.

Main Results:

• 53 participants (70% with MCI) were enrolled, with 81% retention rate, exceeding the target.
• Participants reported high satisfaction, with most rating session quality as "good, very good, or excellent".
• While recruitment was slower than anticipated, the intervention met feasibility and acceptability thresholds.

Conclusions:

• The pilot RCT demonstrated that piano improvisation training is feasible and acceptable for older adults, including those with MCI.
• These findings support proceeding with a larger, mechanistic trial to further investigate the intervention's effects.
• Future research will test if piano improvisation enhances self-regulation, promoting sustained engagement in cognitively challenging activities.