Recruiting

Using Sounds During Sleep to Prevent Memory Loss in Older Adults

Plain-English translation of NCT06669546 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated April 2026 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

What is this trial?

This study is testing a non-invasive approach called phase-locked auditory stimulation (PLAS) — special sounds timed to strengthen your brain's deep sleep — to see if it can help improve memory and slow cognitive decline. Researchers know that deep sleep is crucial for memory and for clearing harmful waste from the brain, and that this sleep is often disrupted in people with memory problems. This trial will test whether the treatment can improve sleep quality and memory in real-world conditions over several weeks.

Dementia is a leading cause of death worldwide and is linked to loss of deep, restorative sleep. By testing this non-invasive, at-home treatment, researchers hope to develop an affordable way to help people maintain brain health and prevent cognitive decline before it becomes severe.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 60 and 85 years old
you have mild cognitive impairment or subjective memory concerns confirmed by testing
you are a native German speaker or comparably fluent
you have normal or corrected-to-normal vision and intact hearing
you have a partner or close family member living with you who can help support you with the study materials

You likely don't qualify if…

you have insomnia or severely irregular sleep patterns
you have restless leg syndrome or sleep apnea
you have signs of depression or untreated severe neurological or psychiatric conditions
you are currently taking medications that affect your central nervous system
you have a history of alcohol or substance abuse

What participation looks like

You will use a portable home device that plays either real sounds or silent stimulation during your sleep on weeknights over two separate 4-week periods, with a 2-week break between them. Before and after each period, you'll complete memory tests using engaging games, provide blood samples to measure brain health markers, and undergo cognitive testing. Your at-home partner will help you use the device, and researchers will check in to support you throughout the study.

Using Sounds During Sleep to Prevent Memory Loss in Older Adults

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(1 site)