NCT07602283 · Yale University
Music for Pain and Dementia
(Music4Pain)
What this study is about
This study aims to provide mechanistic insights into how group drumming as a music-based intervention (MBI) affects pain responses and nociceptive function in individuals with Alzheimer's Disease (AD), mild dementia or mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), and brain activity will be measured during communal drumming with their dyadic partners and others.
View original scientific description
This study aims to provide mechanistic insights into how group drumming as a music-based intervention (MBI) affects pain responses and nociceptive function in individuals with Alzheimer's Disease (AD), mild dementia or mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), and brain activity will be measured during communal drumming with their dyadic partners and others. Brain activity, blood pressure, cognitive abilities, blood hormone levels, and static and dynamic pain will also be measured during sessions pre and post the 8-week community drum circle. Investigators will leverage various measurement techniques including, but not limited to, electroencephalography (EEG), quantitative sensory testing (QST), behavioral, surveys, and physiological monitoring to study the impact of group drumming on pain and brain activity in AD and inter-dyad synchrony.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Clinical Dementia Rating 0.5 - 2
- Be a person with or caregiver to a person with a diagnosis of early Alzheimer's Disease, mild dementia, and/or mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and chronic pain defined as non-cancer pain lasting \>3 months that occurs most days and limits life or work activities OR Be a caregiver to a person with a diagnosis of early Alzheimer's Disease, mild dementia, and/or mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and chronic pain defined as non-cancer pain lasting \>3 months that occurs most days and limits life or work activities
- Able to provide informed consent
- Willing to wear an EEG headset and heart rate monitoring devices
- Willing to answer survey questions about topics related to the study
- Willing to be audio / video recorded
- Willing to undergo QST, blood draw, heart rate data collection and cognitive testing
Exclusion criteria
- Clinical Dementia Rating \<0.5 or \> 2
- Unable to provide informed consent
- Endorsing suicidal ideation (SI), self-injurious behavior, or homicidal ideation (HI) above the threshold defined in the "Risk Reduction and Safety Plan"
- Participating in another clinical trial studying AD and/or Dementia
- Starting a new prescription medication in the last 4 weeks
- Taking central nervous system acting medications that may interfere with study measurements as determined at PI discretion
Where
- New Haven, Connecticut
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 12, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations