NCT06230783 · University of Wisconsin, Madison
Speech Pattern Evaluation and Analysis for Knowledge of AD
(SPEAK-AD)
What this study is about
The goal of this observational study is to validate changes in speech as a measure of cognition in individuals at increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD). This study aims to clarify how speech may be affected by Alzheimer's disease. Participants will complete speech collection sessions and a survey at home using an iPad.
View original scientific description
The goal of this observational study is to validate changes in speech as a measure of cognition in individuals at increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD). This study aims to clarify how speech may be affected by Alzheimer's disease. Participants will complete speech collection sessions and a survey at home using an iPad. Participants can expect to be in the study for 3 years.
Interventions
OTHER
TalkTracker
Participants will be asked to complete the speech collection procedures remotely/at home once per week for 8 weeks. The 8-week period of weekly remote speech collection will take place yearly for a total of 3 years. At the end of each 8-week study period for years 1-3, participants will complete a survey that asks questions about how easy/difficult the application was to use, how frustrated they felt using the application, and other usability questions.
Primary outcome measures
Usability of remote at-home speech collection - objective
Time frame: 3 years
Usability will be measured objectively through the TalkTracker mobile application by obtaining compliance metrics (number of tasks completed, total number of errors, number of help requests).
Usability of remote at-home speech collection - objective
Time frame: 3 years
Usability will be measured objectively through the TalkTracker mobile application by obtaining compliance metric of time to completion.
Feasibility of remote at-home speech collection
Time frame: 3 years
Feasibility will be measured through numbers of retention, adherence, and accrual.
Feasibility of remote at-home speech collection
Time frame: 3 years
Feasibility will be measured through sample characteristics, and identification of productive recruitment methods.
Feasibility of remote at-home speech collection
Time frame: 3 years
Feasibility will be measured through identification of productive recruitment methods.
Usability of remote at-home speech collection - subjective
Time frame: 3 years
Subjective measurement usability will be assessed through the System Usability Scale (SUS) given to participants after each 8-week completion period. The SUS is a 7 item questionnaire, with a range of 1 to 5 (1 = strongly disagree, 5 = strongly agree). Higher scores on questions 1, 3, 5 and 7 indicate lower usability. Higher scores on questions 2, 4 and 6 indicate higher usability.
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
- Must be enrolled in the Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (W-ADRC) Clinical Core or IMPACT studies, or in the Wisconsin Registry for Alzheimer's Prevention (WRAP)
- Cognitively unimpaired or have a diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
- Ages 40-80 years
- Completion of a W-ADRC or WRAP study visit within the past or upcoming 12 months
- Have provided W-ADRC or WRAP with blood plasma Alzheimer's Disease
Exclusion criteria
- Not actively enrolled in W-ADRC or WRAP
- Diagnosis of dementia
- Impaired capacity or unwilling to consent
- Major neurological conditions
- Speech disorders
Where
- Madison, Wisconsin
Collaborators
Arizona State University, National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Related conditions & keywords
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 12, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations