NCT07142499 · Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Memory Support System for Older Chinese Americans With Mild Cognitive Impairment
What this study is about
The Memory Support System (MSS) from the Healthy Action to Benefit Independence \& Thinking® (HABIT) Program is an evidence-based, non-pharmacological intervention for mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Despite the clinical benefits and feasibility, the MSS was primarily developed and used with non-Hispanic White, English-speaking adults.
View original scientific description
The Memory Support System (MSS) from the Healthy Action to Benefit Independence \& Thinking® (HABIT) Program is an evidence-based, non-pharmacological intervention for mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Despite the clinical benefits and feasibility, the MSS was primarily developed and used with non-Hispanic White, English-speaking adults. Racial/ethnic minority groups are chronically under-enrolled in clinical trials for Alzheimer's Disease and Alzheimer's Disease Related Dementias (AD/ADRD) due to lack of linguistically and culturally appropriate adaptation of assessment measures and intervention protocols. The purpose of this research study is to examine whether the MSS from HABIT can help Chinese American older adults with mild thinking and memory problems. Target recruitment is 60 Chinese American adults who are primarily Mandarin- (n=30) and Cantonese-speaking (n=30). Forty participants will participate in the trainer-led day planner training and 20 will participate in self-study of the day planner and receive brain health education. Each participant will also be asked to identify a study partner to participate with them.
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
- self-identify as Chinese American;
- age 55 and above;
- a diagnosis of MCI as confirmed through documented clinical assessment and/or research-based diagnostic criteria;
- predominantly Cantonese- or Mandarin-speaking;
- able to read and write in Chinese;
- visual and auditory acuity adequate for cognitive testing;
- willing to complete the assessment measures;
- having someone in regular contact to serve as a study partner/informant;
- absence or stable use of prescribed memory-enhancing medications within the last 3 months.
Exclusion criteria
- any significant neurologic disease that would impact their participation and completion of the trial;
- history of psychiatry disorder (DSM 5 criteria) within the last 12 months;
- history of reading or writing disability sufficient to interfere with MSS training; or
- concurrent participation in another relevant clinical trial.
Where
- New York, New York
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 Nov 6, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations