Piano lessons may keep aging brains sharp, new study hints

NCT ID NCT06721390

Ongoing Symptom relief Sponsor: University of California, San Francisco Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether 12 weeks of piano improvisation training can improve thinking skills and self-control in adults aged 60 and older, including those with mild cognitive impairment. Participants will either take piano improvisation lessons or listen to music with an instructor. Researchers will measure changes in cognitive activity and self-regulation to see if making music offers unique brain benefits.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Piano improvisation training
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a simple, enjoyable activity to help older adults stay mentally sharp.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage study with no phase, so results may not be conclusive. The intervention is short (12 weeks) and may not produce lasting benefits.

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

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for AGING are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Cognitive Dysfunction

As listed by the trial registrant

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

AGING COGNITIVE AGING COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT COGNITIVE TRAINING COGNITIVELY NORMAL OLDER ADULTS MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT

Contacts and locations

Locations

The study is taking place at community sites in San Francisco.

San Francisco, California, 94110, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.