Can specially crafted music soothe the anxious mind in Alzheimer's?

NCT ID NCT05477862

ENROLLING_BY_INVITATION Symptom relief Sponsor: Northwestern University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 10, 2026 · Last updated Aug 11, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study explores whether a type of improvised music, designed with calming sound parameters, can reduce anxiety in people with Alzheimer's disease and in healthy adults. Researchers will measure changes in anxiety scores, blood pressure, and heart rate before and after listening. The goal is to see if this music-based approach offers a simple, non-drug way to promote calmness.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Clinically Designed Improvisatory Music (CDIM), a form of improvised music built on calm-inducing sound parameters
What this could lead to: If effective, this music-based approach could offer a drug-free way to reduce anxiety in people with Alzheimer's and others.
What could go wrong: The trial is small (30 participants) and early, so results may not apply broadly. Music's calming effect can vary greatly between individuals.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Alzheimer disease anxiety disorder dementia Psychomotor Agitation

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ALZHEIMER DISEASE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer's Disease

Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States

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