Could a simple beat help Alzheimer's patients walk better?

NCT ID NCT07659964

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Boston University Charles River Campus Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Aug 14, 2026 · Updated 3 times

Summary

This study explores whether rhythmic auditory stimulation (like a metronome beat) can improve walking and brain function in people with Alzheimer's disease or mild cognitive impairment. Participants will walk while listening to rhythmic sounds, and researchers will measure changes in gait and brain activity using portable imaging. The goal is to find a non-drug approach to reduce fall risk, which is a major concern for people with Alzheimer's.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Rhythmic auditory stimulation (metronome)
What this could lead to: If effective, rhythmic sound could become a simple, drug-free way to improve walking and reduce fall risk in people with Alzheimer's.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study (40 people) looking at brain and gait changes, not clinical outcomes. Results may not apply to all stages of Alzheimer's.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Alzheimer disease Cognitive Dysfunction

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ALZHEIMER DISEASE (AD) MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT (MCI)

Contacts and locations

Locations

Boston University Neuromotor Recovery Laboratory
RECRUITING

Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, United States

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