Multi-modal Large Language Model-Empowered Talk Therapy for Older Adults With ADRD

Summary

The purpose of this study is to test the usefulness and the effect of 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). SVR is designed to help older adults improve their psychological well-being and cognition. This research supports our long-term goal of designing and implementing intelligent interactive systems to improve the health of individuals with ADRD.

Interventions

• Smart Virtual Reminiscence Therapy · DEVICE

  SVR Therapy is delivered through a computer program that can be accessed using a personal computer or smart device. It uses virtual reality, automated speech recognition, and large language models to achieve virtual therapist-patient interaction. The SVR therapy platform also automatically sources multi-modal reminiscence materials (e.g., images, text, etc.) through search engines and databases to facilitate the reminiscence therapy sessions. Each participant will participate in two 25-60 min (depending on content) sessions/week across 12 weeks. Each session will include multiple trials of reminiscence, such as music, sports, arts, etc. Each trial takes about 10 minutes to finish. The exact number of trials finished will depend on each patient's speed, preference, and how long they engage in the interaction with the SVR system. The participants can take breaks as needed.

• Music Therapy · OTHER

  Participants in the attention control group will receive a curated playlist of calming music that they need to listen to twice a week for 12 weeks. The music can be conveniently accessed online (e.g., through YouTube).

Published eligibility criteria

Verbatim from the registry. Only the site can decide how these apply to a specific patient.

For the patient:

Inclusion criteria:

* age ≥ 65 years
* diagnosis of MCI (mild cognitive impairment) or mild ADRD
* access to a reliable internet connection
* community-dwelling
* elevated behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), indicated by a HABC (Healthy Aging Brain Care) monitor score above 14 on caregiver report or self report (indicating elevated levels of BPSD)
* presence of one or more specific BPSD behaviors (e.g., agitation, anxiety, depression, apathy, or sleep disturbances)
* ability to consent for themselves.

Exclusion criteria:

* lives in an assisted living facility or nursing home
* has moderate to severe ADRD as measured by the Quick Dementia Rating System
* has a life expectancy of less than 6 months.

For the care partner:

Inclusion criteria:

* ≥ 21 years old
* self-identified care partner (e.g., is knowledgeable about the patient's daytime and nighttime behaviors) of a community-dwelling patient diagnosed with MCI or mild ADRD who will also participate in the study

Exclusion criteria:

* has MCI or dementia
* has a severe mental illness or substance abuse
* has a life expectancy of less than 6 months.

Sites (1)

• Sidney & Lois Eskenazi Hospital, Indianapolis, Indiana · RECRUITING