Brain Boost Program to Improve Cognitive Function in People With Systemic Sclerosis

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN · Mar 11, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The Brain Boost Program is a clinical trial designed to see if an 8-week online educational group can help improve thinking skills and overall well-being in people with systemic sclerosis, also known as scleroderma. The study will compare participants who take part in this program with those who are on a waitlist to see if the program leads to better results in thinking abilities and other related symptoms.

To join the trial, participants must be diagnosed with systemic sclerosis and may have some difficulty with thinking skills, as indicated by certain questionnaires. They should also have access to a device like a computer or smartphone that connects to the internet and be able to read and understand English. However, individuals with dementia, certain neurological issues, or serious mental health conditions cannot participate. If eligible, participants can expect to join an online group where they will learn and interact with others, all aimed at improving their cognitive function over the eight weeks.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Have physician-diagnosis of Systemic sclerosis (SSc) (any subtype)
• • A score of ≥ 10 on the Perceived Deficits Questionnaire
• • A score of ≤ 7 on the 6-Item Cognitive Impairment Test
• • Have access to a reliable, internet-connected device (e.g. computer, smartphone, tablet)
• • Visual acuity with correction sufficient to work on a computer, smartphone, tablet or screen
• • Be able to read, speak, and understand English
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Diagnosis of dementia or head injury
• • Other neurological disorders that might impact cognition
• • Have major psychiatric disorder such as major depression and schizophrenia
• • Complex, unstable health issues that would preclude full participation in the study (like a planned surgery or active cancer treatment)