Frontotemporal dementia

This completed Phase 2 trial tested an oral drug called LY3372689 in 327 people with early symptomatic Alzheimer's disease. The goal was to see if the drug could safely slow down declines in thinking and daily living skills compared to a placebo. The study focused on participants…

This completed trial in Xishui, China, tested a community-based program for 3,571 adults aged 35 and older who were at high risk for COPD and had mental health symptoms. The program included lung function tests, digital mental health support, smoking cessation help, and health ed…

This study tested a drug called TPN-101 in 42 people with ALS or frontotemporal dementia caused by a specific gene change (C9orf72). The main goal was to check if the drug is safe and tolerable over 48 weeks. Researchers also looked at how the drug moves in the body and whether i…

This early-stage trial tested a drug called NIO752 in 59 people with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a rare brain disorder that affects movement and balance. The drug was given as a spinal injection to see if it is safe and how the body processes it. The main goal was to ch…

This study tested a drug called AL001 in 33 people who carry a gene mutation that causes frontotemporal dementia, a brain disease that affects personality and language. The goal was to see if the drug is safe and how it affects certain proteins in the body. The trial was open-lab…

This completed study tested whether a Mediterranean diet could improve metabolic syndrome markers in 30 hospitalized adults with psychiatric conditions. Participants followed either a Mediterranean diet or a standard hospital diet for 8 weeks, then switched. Researchers measured …

This study looked at whether a special brain scan called 18F-FDG PET can help doctors tell the difference between cognitive problems caused by psychiatric conditions versus neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Researchers studied 20 adults with cognitive impairment who ha…

This study tested an artificial intelligence platform that screens for cognitive dysfunction by analyzing eye movements. Over 1,500 participants, including people with various dementias and healthy individuals, took part. The AI aims to detect cognitive impairment and provide ref…

This study tested a new blood test that uses a microfluidic chip to detect Alzheimer's disease. Researchers collected blood and urine samples from 150 people, including those with Alzheimer's, other brain diseases, and healthy volunteers. The goal was to see if the test could acc…

Researchers tested an artificial intelligence program that analyzes retinal images to diagnose several nerve and brain conditions, such as optic neuropathy and brain tumors. The study used data from 693 patients with confirmed diagnoses. The goal is to create a fast triage tool f…

This study tested whether lithium, a drug used for mood disorders, can prevent Alzheimer's dementia in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). 83 participants took either lithium or a placebo for a period, and researchers measured memory, thinking skills, and brain cha…

This study looks at whether adding a physical activity education program to adapted exercise helps people with mild memory or thinking problems more than exercise alone. Thirty-four participants will be followed for six months to measure changes in activity level, thinking skills…

This study tested a program where a pharmacist worked with people living with dementia, their care partners, and their doctors to review and reduce unnecessary medications. The goal was to simplify medication routines and lower treatment burden. The study included 138 participant…

This study tests whether Snoezelen multisensory therapy — a calming, personalized experience using lights, sounds, textures, and scents — can reduce agitation, depression, and anxiety in older adults with dementia. Sixty participants with mild to moderate dementia will receive ei…

This study looked at whether a weekly hour of adapted physical activity for 12 weeks could improve self-esteem and motivation in 17 older adults with mild to major cognitive disorders like Alzheimer's. Researchers measured changes in self-esteem, motivation, and apathy. The goal …

This study tests whether adding a caregiver training program to a visual mapping assistive technology (MapHabit) improves daily life for people with Alzheimer's or dementia and reduces stress for their caregivers. Fifty patient-caregiver pairs will use either the technology alone…

This study tested an online education program called 'Caregiving While Black' to help Black American caregivers feel more confident and less stressed while caring for a family member or friend with dementia. About 140 caregivers took part. The program focused on building skills a…

This study tested a program called EnACT for family caregivers of people with dementia. The program uses group sessions where caregivers watch scenarios, practice responses, and reflect on their choices. The goal is to help caregivers feel more prepared and less stressed when dea…

This study tested whether a 4-week program using active video games (exergames) on the Nintendo Switch could help adults with mental illness feel better and stay motivated. Twelve participants were split into two groups: one played exergames, the other continued their usual routi…

This study looked at whether visits from therapy animals can improve mood, behavior, and quality of life for people with moderate to severe dementia living in nursing homes. Researchers observed 20 participants and compared animal visits to other activities. The goal was to see i…

This study tested a set of tablet games called VibrantMinds, designed to be easy and fun for older adults, including those with dementia. 26 participants aged 65+ with mild cognitive impairment played games like Whack-A-Mole and Word Search. Researchers measured changes in thinki…

This study tested whether a socially assistive robot could reduce apathy in older adults with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease living in long-term care. 142 participants were randomly assigned to either usual activities or usual activities plus robot-led sessions.…

This study tested whether tongue-strengthening exercises using a special device could improve swallowing in people with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. 76 participants with mild to moderate dementia did exercises over 8 weeks. The goal was to reduce food or liquid goin…

This study tested a software system that uses a humanoid robot to give cognitive and motor tests to people with early Alzheimer's or other mild to moderate dementia. The goal was to see if the robot could effectively administer tests like the Mini Mental State Exam (MMSE) and hel…

This study tested a program called Cuidando Juntos, designed to support Latino caregivers of people with dementia. The program includes eight modules on stress management, self-care, and handling difficult behaviors. Researchers wanted to see if the program was well received and …

This study tested whether playing interactive digital games in a group could improve mood, behavior, and thinking in 24 older adults with early to moderate dementia. Participants played games like Mahjong on a touch-sensitive table twice a week for 20 weeks. Researchers measured …

This study tested a ketogenic drink made from medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) in 43 people with Alzheimer's disease or a type of frontotemporal dementia. The goal was to see if it was safe and tolerable, and to measure ketone levels in the blood. It was a small, early-stage tri…

This study tested an online platform called the Living Memory Home for Dementia Care Pairs (LMH-4-DCP). It helps people with dementia and their family caregivers share and record meaningful memories together. The goal was to see if using the platform could reduce feelings of grie…

This study tested whether repeated sessions of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) could improve language in people with primary progressive aphasia (PPA), a condition that slowly damages language areas of the brain. Ten participants received both real and sham (fake) TMS ove…

This study tested whether a virtual group therapy program called Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (V-CST) could help slow cognitive decline in people with mild to moderate dementia. 133 participants were randomly assigned to either receive a referral for V-CST or continue with stand…

This study tested a hearing care program for older adults with both hearing loss and dementia. Speech-language pathologists delivered the program at home. The goal was to see if better hearing could reduce troubling symptoms like agitation and improve quality of life. 77 people t…

This study tested a program called MEMORI Corps, where trained volunteers aged 55+ provide companionship and personalized activities to people with dementia living at home. The program was delivered virtually over 12 weeks. Researchers measured changes in mood, quality of life, a…

This study tested whether an Apple Watch paired with a special app and weekly health coaching could help dementia caregivers improve their sleep and mood. Twenty-one caregivers wore the watch to track their activity and sleep, and received personalized feedback and motivational c…

This study tested a special palliative care program for people with late-stage Alzheimer's or related dementias and their family caregivers. The program started during a hospital stay and included caregiver education and support to reduce hospital transfers and improve symptom co…

This pilot study tested whether combining a mild brain stimulation technique (tDCS) with intensive language therapy can help people with non-fluent aphasia after a stroke. Ten participants received both real and sham stimulation during therapy sessions. The goal was to see if the…

This study tested a video-based program called STELLA-FTD to help family caregivers of people with frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Sixteen caregivers participated in the program, which aimed to reduce their stress and improve their quality of life. The approach used videoconferenc…

This study tested whether a daily supplement called ETAS®, made from asparagus, could improve memory, mood, and reduce inflammation in healthy adults aged 60-80 who had mild memory concerns. 45 participants took either a low or high dose of ETAS® or a placebo for 12 weeks. Resear…

This study tested speech entrainment therapy (SET) in 80 people with non-fluent aphasia after a stroke. Participants practiced speaking along with an audio-visual computer program for 3, 4.5, or 6 weeks, or received no therapy. The goal was to find the best duration for lasting i…

This study tested whether a gentle, non-invasive brain stimulation technique called tDCS, combined with language therapy, could improve speech in 23 people with primary progressive aphasia (PPA). Participants received either real or fake (sham) stimulation daily for 10 days. Rese…

This study tested a home device called Care4AD (Nili) designed to help caregivers coordinate daily activities for people with Alzheimer's or related dementia. The device provided reminders for tasks, social engagement, and medication. Researchers measured changes in caregiver bur…

This completed trial tested a virtual program for people with Alzheimer's or related dementias and their caregivers. Nearly 1,000 participants received monthly video or phone visits from nurses or social workers over a year. The program focused on managing symptoms, reducing care…

This study tested an 8-week telehealth program for people with Alzheimer's or related dementias living at home with a caregiver. The program used Zoom to teach caregivers how to improve daily activities and reduce challenging behaviors. 84 people (person with dementia and their c…

This study tested whether a gentle electrical current applied to the brain (tDCS) can improve language when combined with speech therapy in people with primary progressive aphasia (PPA), a condition that slowly damages language abilities. 76 adults with two types of PPA received …

This study tested an online tool called WeCareAdvisor that helps caregivers of people with dementia manage behavioral and psychological symptoms. 262 caregivers used the tool for 6 months, with some receiving extra prompts. The goal was to see if it reduces caregiver distress and…

This study tested whether adding game-like features to a visual mapping app helps people with mild to moderate Alzheimer's or related dementias stay engaged in daily activities. Sixty participants and their caregivers used the app for six months, with half getting the gamified ve…

This study tested whether cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) — structured group activities like word games, quizzes, and physical games — could improve thinking and engagement in 10 nursing home residents with mild-to-moderate dementia. Participants attended 45-60 minute session…

This study tested an in-home technology system that uses sensors and wearable devices to monitor people with dementia and alert their caregivers about worrisome behaviors like falls or wandering. The goal was to see if this system could reduce caregivers' anxiety, burden, and dep…

This study tested an in-home technology system designed to help Spanish-speaking caregivers of people with dementia, Alzheimer's, or mild cognitive impairment. The system uses sensors and intelligent bots to detect worrisome behaviors like falls or wandering and sends alerts to t…

This pilot study tested a telehealth program that combines music therapy and social work support for older adults living at home, including those with dementia. Twenty participants aged 65 and older in Kentucky took part in 30-minute Zoom sessions twice a week for four weeks. The…

This study looked at whether emergency department pharmacists can safely reduce the use of certain brain-active medications in people with dementia or mild cognitive impairment. Researchers worked with 300 participants to see if pharmacists could communicate medication changes to…

This study investigates how different language treatments affect both language skills and brain function in people with aphasia, a condition that impairs the ability to speak, understand, read, or write after a stroke. Participants will receive therapy targeting naming, spelling,…

This completed study looked at how the social networks of caregivers affect their stress and health when caring for someone with an inherited disease. Researchers surveyed over 680 participants, including family members and formal caregivers, to understand caregiving burden and s…

This study followed 50 adults with a C9ORF72 gene mutation that can cause ALS or frontotemporal dementia. Over three years, researchers measured changes in strength, thinking, memory, and behavior using brain scans, spinal fluid tests, and other assessments. The goal was to under…

This completed study looked at the experiences of 275 extended family members (like grandchildren, siblings, and nieces/nephews) who care for a person with dementia. Researchers interviewed caregivers about their daily tasks, stress, and use of support services. The goal is to us…

This completed study looked at how people learn and remember associations, like names or where you met someone. Researchers compared healthy young and older adults with patients who have memory problems from Alzheimer's or semantic dementia. They used memory tests and brain scans…

This study tested whether a 10-week recovery program, co-led by a peer with mental illness and a professional, is feasible for people with mental illness in Taiwan. Twenty participants completed the program, which focused on recovery concepts, strengths, and goal setting. Researc…

This study looked at whether opioid use disorder and non-fatal overdoses cause a harmful protein called tau to build up in the brain. Researchers used special PET/CT scans on 12 adults, including those with opioid use disorder and healthy volunteers. The goal was to understand lo…

This pilot study tested whether wearable sensors can accurately measure apathy in people with frontotemporal dementia. Researchers monitored 14 participants' movements and behaviors in real-life situations. The goal was to see if technology could provide a more objective way to a…

This study looked at how common dementia and memory problems are in older Mexican Americans compared to non-Hispanic whites. Researchers tracked changes in thinking skills over time and also asked caregivers what help they need. The goal is to find better ways to support patients…

This study collected blood samples from over 2,200 people with Alzheimer's or other dementias, plus healthy volunteers, to search for genes linked to these diseases. Researchers aimed to identify new genetic causes and better understand how genes affect disease risk and progressi…

This study aimed to create a better way to measure apathy—a lack of motivation and goal-directed behavior—in people with brain diseases like frontotemporal dementia and depression. Researchers used video recordings and body sensors to track behaviors in a real-life setting. 66 he…

This study looked at how thinking skills and brain activity differ in people who self-harm compared to those who don't. Researchers interviewed 316 adults and gave them thinking tests, with some also having brain scans. The goal was to better understand self-harm to help create m…

This completed trial tested an online tool called 'Safety in Dementia' that guides caregivers through decisions about firearm access for a person with dementia. 500 informal caregivers across the U.S. participated. The tool helps clarify options, risks, and personal values, aimin…

This study used eye-tracking to see how people with Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, or frontotemporal dementia look at faces when trying to recognize emotions. Researchers compared their eye movements to healthy adults. The goal was to understand if different visual strategies explain …

This completed study at Rutgers University looked at how the brain and body communicate in 30 people with conditions like autism, ADHD, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's. Participants performed natural movements like walking and pointing while their brain, heart, and motion signals we…

This study tested a program called Recovery Bridge, where trained peer specialists (people with lived experience of mental illness) helped veterans leaving a psychiatric hospital connect to outpatient care and community life. Fifteen veterans took part to see if the program was f…

This completed study involved over 2,200 people diagnosed with or suspected of having frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Researchers collected blood samples to look for genetic changes linked to the disease. The goal was to find out how common these genetic causes are in people with …

This study tested a program called PorchLight Project, where trained senior companions helped families caring for someone with Alzheimer's or dementia. The goal was to connect families with community services and improve their interactions with doctors. Researchers measured thing…

This study looked at how people with Alzheimer's disease or a type of frontotemporal dementia remember personal events from their past. Researchers tested 39 participants using a detailed scale to see if memories were specific (like a single event in time and place) or more gener…

This study looked at how often insomnia occurs in people hospitalized for psychiatric conditions. Researchers checked 427 patients at 11 hospitals in Switzerland and Germany. They also explored whether age, gender, or type of disorder made insomnia more likely.

This study followed 44 adults with a confirmed VCP gene mutation to learn how their disease (IBMPFD) naturally progresses over one year. Participants completed walking tests, strength assessments, and surveys about daily function and quality of life. The goal was to gather data t…

This study tested whether home automation and remote monitoring can help elderly people (65+) with multiple chronic conditions live safely at home. Over 500 participants had their homes equipped with sensors that tracked health signs and sent alerts to doctors. The main goal was …

This study examined 186 people with Alzheimer's, Lewy body, frontotemporal, or corticobasal dementia, plus healthy controls, to see if subtle physical signs (like coordination or reflexes) differ between dementia types. Participants had simple exams and cognitive tests. The goal …

This completed observational study enrolled 1,141 participants with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease. Researchers tracked changes in memory tests, brain scans, and other biomarkers over time. The goal was to improve how future clinical trials measure the disease, …

This study tested a social robot that leads activities like trivia and reminders for people with Alzheimer's or other dementias living in assisted living. Researchers wanted to see what makes it easy or hard to use the robot in daily care. 26 residents, family members, and staff …

This study looked at whether bowel cleansing before colorectal surgery is linked to memory or thinking problems after the operation. Researchers measured certain brain-related proteins in the blood and gave thinking tests to 84 patients before and after surgery. The goal was to u…

This study aimed to translate and validate an Italian version of a tool that helps speech therapists assess swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) in people with neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's or ALS. Researchers tested the tool on 101 adults with such conditions to ens…

This study looked at 77 people with Alzheimer's or frontotemporal dementia to understand why some lose awareness of their condition (anosognosia). Researchers used EEG and brain scans to measure how the brain responds to mistakes and emotional signals. The goal is to find brain m…

This completed study looked at how different types of brain damage—from strokes, tumors, infections, or degenerative diseases—affect thinking and memory. Researchers used brain scans (MRI) and cognitive tests in 346 patients and healthy volunteers to map which brain areas are res…

This study tested a new approach to help people with dementia and their caregivers reduce unnecessary medications. Researchers compared patients who received care focused on their personal health priorities to those who got usual care. The goal was to see if this method leads to …

This study tested a web-based program called Structured Retrieval Practice (SRP) to help dementia caregivers learn and remember practical care skills. 73 caregivers completed online modules and quizzes. The goal was to see if this method improves knowledge retention and reduces c…

This study tested an 8-month program called 'Meaningful Activities and Recovery' (MA&R) for people with mental illness. The program helps people take part in activities that matter to them. 139 adults took part to see if the program improves activity engagement, recovery, and qua…

This study tested a special training and tool for home hospice nurses and social workers to help them better care for people with dementia and support their families. About 93 participants, including clinicians and family caregivers who are Black or White, took part. The goal was…

This study interviewed 26 adults who either have behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) or carry a gene that puts them at risk. The goal was to learn how the condition affects daily life, emotions, and coping. No treatment or medication was tested—just listening and g…

This completed study tested a new radioactive tracer called [18F]-SynVesT-1 to measure brain synapse density in 134 people with Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal degeneration, dementia with Lewy bodies, or late-life psychiatric disorders. Researchers compared this new scan to t…

This study looked at medical records of 683 older adults with dementia to see if their use of antiplatelet drugs (like aspirin) matched official guidelines. Researchers found that prescribing patterns varied across different types of dementia. The goal was to understand real-worl…

This completed study looked at whether using adult day services helps reduce stress in Black caregivers of family members with dementia. Forty-two caregivers provided saliva samples and filled out stress surveys on days when their loved one used adult day services and on days the…

This study surveyed 219 family caregivers of people with dementia to explore how swallowing problems (dysphagia) affect their burden and needs. Caregivers completed a one-time online questionnaire about their experiences, stress, and knowledge. The goal is to better understand an…

This study tested a program called APPROACHES in nearly 500 nursing homes across the U.S. The program trained staff to better discuss and document care preferences for residents with Alzheimer's or related dementias. The goal was to see if this approach could reduce unwanted hosp…

This study tested a special PET scan tracer (F-18 AV 1451) to see how much tau protein builds up in the brains of 81 people with primary progressive aphasia or frontotemporal dementia. Researchers compared these scans to those of healthy controls to find unique patterns for each …

This study tested a program to support families right after a dementia diagnosis. 82 caregivers from Iowa took part. The program provided education and help connecting to community services. The goal was to reduce caregiver burden and improve knowledge of available support.

This study tested whether giving doctors tailored information about the benefits of community-based palliative care helps more people with dementia and their families accept it. Researchers worked with 301 Medicare Advantage members who were eligible for palliative care. The goal…

This study tested whether a pharmacist-led program could help older adults with dementia and their caregivers reduce unnecessary medications. The program included an educational brochure, a telehealth visit with a pharmacist, and tailored recommendations for the patient's doctor.…

This completed study looked at 224 adults who already had at least one psychiatric condition to see how many also had undiagnosed ADHD. Researchers measured how often ADHD was missed and tracked quality of life in those diagnosed. The goal is to highlight the need for better dete…

This study tested a program called Caregiving While Black-LIVE, designed to help Black caregivers of people with dementia. The program includes online lessons and group sessions to teach skills like managing healthcare, home life, and self-care. Researchers measured whether it im…

This completed study looked at how the prefrontal cortex helps us understand analogies and categories. Researchers used brain scans, EEG, and magnetic stimulation in 130 healthy volunteers and patients with frontotemporal dementia or progressive supranuclear palsy. The goal was t…

This study tested a program called the Care Ecosystem, which provides phone- and web-based support and care coordination for people with dementia and their caregivers. Over 1,200 participants from six health systems took part. The goal was to see if this approach improves quality…