RecruitingInterventional

Developing a brain health programme for people with Mild Cognitive Impairment to reduce dementia risk

Many people notice their memory or thinking is not as sharp as it used to be. For some, doctors diagnose this as Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). While MCI can increase the chance of developing dementia, healthy lifestyle changes may help protect the brain. Currently, the NHS does not offer a set programme to help people make these changes. Researchers are adapting a successful Australian programme called Healthy Brain Ageing for NHS patients. This new UK version, called HBA-UK, combines health education, practical memory training, and supportive group discussions. In this small pilot study, 24 people will take part in small groups of eight at the Bristol Brain Centre. Participants will attend regular sessions, share feedback to improve the programme, and complete memory tests before, right after, and three months later. The results will help researchers plan a larger clinical trial across the UK.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

North Bristol NHS Trust

Enrolment target

Start

18 Jun 2026

Estimated completion

01 Mar 2027

A confirmed mild cognitive disorder conferring elevated risk of future dementia progression, including Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and Subjective Cognitive Impairment (SCI)

What is this study about?

Many adults experience mild changes in their memory and thinking skills as they age. Conditions like Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and Subjective Cognitive Impairment (SCI) mean that a person has noticeable thinking or memory difficulties, but can still carry out their normal daily activities. However, having these conditions does mean a person has a higher risk of developing dementia in the future.

Research shows that keeping the brain active, eating well, exercising, and managing mood and sleep can help protect brain health and lower dementia risk. Even so, there are currently no standard lifestyle support programmes available on the NHS for people with mild memory problems. This study aims to change that by testing a new group-based programme called 'Healthy Brain Ageing UK' (HBA-UK).

The programme is based on an Australian project that successfully helped people improve their thinking, mood, and sleep. In this pilot study, researchers will adapt the programme for the UK and run it with three small groups of eight patients at the Bristol Brain Centre. Participants will try out the sessions, practice memory strategies, and give honest feedback on what worked and what could be better.

By gathering feedback and tracking memory scores, the researchers hope to refine the programme so it meets the needs of NHS patients. If successful, this study will pave the way for a much larger clinical trial and could lead to new brain health services being offered across the NHS.

Key takeaways

Tests a new group programme to help people with mild memory problems protect their brain health.
Adapted from a successful Australian study to fit the needs of NHS patients.
Open to adults aged 50 to 90 who have been seen at the Bristol Brain Centre.
Involves group discussions, practical memory techniques, and lifestyle education.
Does not involve any new drugs, injections, or medical treatments.
Feedback from participants will help shape future dementia prevention services.

Who may be eligible?

This study is designed for adults aged between 50 and 90 who have been told by a doctor that they have a mild memory or thinking condition, such as Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) or Subjective Cognitive Impairment (SCI). To take part, you must have previously attended an appointment at the Bristol Brain Centre at Southmead Hospital.

Because this programme is held in person, you need to be able and willing to travel regularly to Southmead Hospital. You also need to feel comfortable talking, sharing, and learning in a small group setting alongside other patients experiencing similar memory challenges.

The study is not suitable for people with more advanced memory difficulties (determined by a standard memory test score). It is also not suitable for anyone currently experiencing severe mental health difficulties that would make learning in a group setting uncomfortable or stressful. Your doctor or the study team can help decide if the programme is right for you.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 50 and 90 years of age?
Have you been diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) or a similar mild thinking problem?
Have you previously been a patient at the Bristol Brain Centre (Southmead Hospital)?
Are you comfortable learning and chatting in a small group of other patients?
Can you travel to Southmead Hospital for regular group sessions?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

Taking part involves joining a small group of eight participants for regular brain health sessions at the Bristol Brain Centre at Southmead Hospital. There are no new drugs or medications involved in this study. The sessions focus on health tips, memory exercises, and group discussions.

You will be asked to complete some standard memory and thinking tasks, as well as surveys about your mood, sleep, lifestyle, and wellbeing. These assessments take place before the programme starts, immediately after the sessions finish, and again three months later to see if any benefits last over time. In total, your participation will last around four to five months, including the three-month follow-up check.

Potential risks and benefits

A potential benefit of joining is learning practical ways to protect your brain health, improve your sleep, and boost your daily wellbeing, while meeting others who understand what you are going through. However, taking part will not cure memory problems, and travelling to the hospital requires time and effort. Some people may also find answering memory questions slightly tiring or stressful. Taking part is completely voluntary, and you are free to stop at any time without it affecting your standard NHS medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

North Bristol NHS Trust
City only
Bristol, England

Common questions

Is this study testing a new drug?

No. This study does not involve any medication. It focuses purely on lifestyle advice, brain training exercises, and group support.

Where do the sessions take place?

All group sessions and memory assessments take place in person at the Bristol Brain Centre, located at Southmead Hospital in Bristol.

Will taking part cure my memory difficulties?

No, the programme is not a cure. It is designed to teach practical tools and healthy habits that may support your brain health, mood, and daily memory skills.

Can my partner or carer come with me?

Carers are often very welcome to support you with travel to the hospital. You can speak to the study team about whether partners can sit in on the group sessions.

What happens if I change my mind during the study?

You can leave the study at any point without giving a reason. Your usual NHS care and relationship with your doctors will not be affected in any way.

How to find out more

David Woodstoke

david.woodstoke@bristol.ac.uk +44 117 455 9069 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.