NCT07387406 · University of California, Los Angeles
Sleep Learning Education and Empowerment for Older Korean Immigrants
(SLEEP-OK)
What this study is about
Poor sleep is common among Asian Americans. Untreated sleep problems increase the risk of chronic diseases, cognitive decline, and mortality. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTI) is considered the first-line treatment for chronic sleep problems and has demonstrated significant improvement in sleep health among older adults.
View original scientific description
Poor sleep is common among Asian Americans. Untreated sleep problems increase the risk of chronic diseases, cognitive decline, and mortality. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTI) is considered the first-line treatment for chronic sleep problems and has demonstrated significant improvement in sleep health among older adults. However, existing CBTI is built upon Western culture, making it challenging to apply for Asian immigrants who maintain close ties to their native cultures that shape and influence their sleep habits. Addressing the lack of availability of a culturally adapted sleep intervention program is the first step to filling the gap in sleep health disparity among Asian immigrants. This study aims to pilot test the feasibility and the preliminary efficacy of a culturally adapted sleep intervention program among older Korean immigrants with poor sleep, one of the fastest-growing immigrant groups in the United States with limited access to mainstream sleep therapies.
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
- Korean immigrants (i.e., being a resident of the United States with a birthplace in Korea)
- Able to speak, read, and write in Korean
- Aged at least 60 years
- Have a score of at least 15 on a Korean version of the Insomnia Severity Index
- Able to ambulate with or without an assistive device
- Have a score of at least 23 on a Korean version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)
- Score less than 5 on STOP-BANG (or proceed with an additional testing \[Watch Peripheral Arterial Tonometry (WatchPAT) and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale if score is equal to or greater than 5 on STOP-BANG)
Exclusion criteria
- Those who are bedbound
- Those who do not meet the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) criteria for insomnia disorder
- Those who have an untreated apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) at least 15 (moderate obstructive sleep apnea) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) at least 11 (indicating mild sleepiness) OR AHI is equal to or greater than 30 (irrespective of ESS)
Where
- Los Angeles, California
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 Mar 5, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations