Music may boost alertness in advanced Alzheimer's, tiny study hints

NCT ID NCT05309369

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This small study tested whether listening to preferred music (compared to nature sounds) could improve mood and alertness in 10 people with moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease. Participants listened to 10-minute music segments each hour for 3 hours. The study measured changes in overall clinical impression and self-reported sleepiness. Results are preliminary and from a very small group, so they are not conclusive.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Preferred music listening

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a simple, drug-free way to improve alertness and well-being in people with advanced Alzheimer's.

What could go wrong

This is a very small study (10 people) with no blinding, so results may not apply broadly. The effect may be short-lived or not meaningful in daily life.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Alzheimer disease dementia

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Medical University of South Carolina

    Charleston, South Carolina, 29425, United States