NCT06918704 · University of California, San Francisco
BID WM Digital Intervention in Aging
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if engaging with an digital intervention may improve cognitive function. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1. Does engagement in with a digital intervention improve working memory? 2.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if engaging with an digital intervention may improve cognitive function. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1. Does engagement in with a digital intervention improve working memory? 2. Does engagement in with a digital intervention improve inhibitory control? Researchers will compare two different digital interventions to assess whether they may be helpful in improving cognitive function. Participants will conduct study activities remotely (e.g., at-home): 1. Baseline Assessment. Complete a series of cognitive assessments and surveys. 2. Intervention. Engage in a digital intervention for up to 8 weeks. 3. Post Intervention Assessment. Complete the same cognitive assessments and surveys as the Baseline Assessment. 4. Follow-Up Assessment. Six months after the intervention ends, participants will complete the same cognitive assessments and surveys as the Baseline Assessment.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Coherence
Coherence is a music-based rhythm training app.
BEHAVIORAL
Worder
Worder is a word search app.
Primary outcome measures
Working Memory
Time frame: Immediately before the intervention, Immediately after the intervention, 6 months after the intervention
Working memory performance will be assessed with a delayed match-to-sample task.
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
- Minimum of 12 years of education
- English fluency
- Normal or corrected-to-normal vision
- Normal or corrected-to-normal vision
- Medically healthy older adults including those with below-average cognitive performance or mild cognitive impairment patients without dementia
Exclusion criteria
- Under the age of 60
- Clinical diagnosis of neurological or psychiatric disorder
- Visually or hearing impaired without correction to normal
- Clinical diagnosis of dementia or AD8 score of \>3
- Regularly (one or more times per week) practicing an instrument within the last year
- 10 or more years of formal musical instrument training
Where
- San Francisco, California
Collaborators
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 Apr 1, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations