Multi-Modal Large Language Model-Empowered Talk Therapy for Older Adults with ADRD
Studying Memory Talk Therapy for Older Adults with Memory Problems
Malaz Boustani, MD
Primary Investigator
Brief description of study
The purpose of this study is to test the usefulness and the effect of the Smart Virtual Reminiscence (SVR) therapy intervention on the Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD) of patients with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD). BPSD refers to changes in behavior and mood that often occur in dementia, such as agitation, anxiety, depression, apathy, sleep disturbances, or irritability. Smart Virtual Reminiscence (SVR) therapy is a computer program that talks with you like a virtual helper. It uses artificial intelligence to show pictures, ask questions, and guide conversations about your memories. SVR is designed to help older adults improve their psychological well-being and cognition.
Detailed description of study
What does participation involve?
- Participants will take part in a 12-week study together with their care partner.
- Complete either:
Listen to selected music twice a week, or
Participate in reminiscence therapy using the SVR program twice a week.
- The program will guide conversations about memories, show pictures and text, and help support mood and thinking skill
Research sessions will occur at the Health Information and Translational Sciences (HITS) Building on the IU Indianapolis campus in a designated lab for appointments. We will not share the individual results of these tests or procedures with partiicpants because they are being done only for research purposes.
Eligibility of study
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria:
- Conditions: Mild cognitive impairment, MCI, Mild Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias, ADRD, memory problems, dementia
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Age: 65 years - 100 years
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Gender: All
Inclusion criteria:
Have a diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) or Mild ADRD
Have noticeable changes in behavior or mood related to dementia, such as feeling anxious, sad, irritable, restless, or losing interest in activities.
Are 65 years old or older
Have a care partner who is knowledgeable about your daytime and nighttime behaviors and will participate in this study with you.
This study investigates the use of Smart Virtual Reminiscence (SVR) therapy for older adults with Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD). ADRD can cause changes in behavior and mood, known as Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD), like agitation or depression. The SVR therapy is a computer program that acts like a virtual helper, using artificial intelligence to show pictures, ask questions, and guide conversations about memories to improve psychological well-being and cognition.
Participants in the study will take part in different activities over 12 weeks. They will either listen to selected music twice a week or engage in reminiscence therapy using the SVR program twice a week. The program helps guide conversations about memories, shows pictures and text, and supports mood and thinking skills.
- Who can participate: People 65 years or older with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) or Mild ADRD, who have changes in behavior or mood related to dementia, can participate. They must have a care partner knowledgeable about their behaviors who will join the study.
- Study details: Participants will engage in activities like listening to music or using the SVR program for reminiscence therapy, which involves guided conversations about memories with the help of a virtual assistant.
- Study timelines: The study will last 12 weeks.
