# A Scalable Model for Promoting Functioning and Well-Being among Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment via Meaningful Social Interactions: Project SPEAK!

> **NIH NIH R21** · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · 2021 · $234,000

## Abstract

Loneliness and a lack of stimulating social interactions increase the risk of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI),
while increasing socialization may protect against mood disorders among MCI sufferers and prevent further
cognitive decline. Unfortunately, many older adults with MCI lack opportunities for connecting with others in
ways that draw on their strengths while recognizing their deficits. In this study we will refine and test the
intervention “SPEAK!” (Seniors Promoting English Acquisition and Knowledge). SPEAK! is designed to engage
older adults with MCI as volunteers helping English Language Learners (ELLs) improve their speaking skills
via structured conversations using videoconferencing. We hypothesize that these structured, goal-oriented
conversations will increase older adults' psychological well-being and cognitive functioning. The project has
enthusiastic support from older adult wellness centers, the University of Michigan Alzheimer's Research
Center, and multiple organizations representing ELLs. Aim 1 of the study (NIA Stage 0) will be to conduct a
qualitative, user-centered design process with 10 dyads of older adults with MCI and ELLs in order to refine the
recruitment processes, orientation protocols, and materials for use in cognitively stimulating and engaging
conversation practice. Orientation materials will be based on Positive Psychology, with an emphasis on
communication strategies that promote cognitive stimulation while ensuring that communication is emotionally
supportive and enhances older adults' sense of feeling effective. In Aims 2 and 3 (NIA Stages 1-2), we will
conduct a pilot, wait-list controlled randomized trial with 44 dyads in which intervention dyads will have 12
weekly webcam conversations facilitated by study staff. The primary goal of Aim 2 will be to evaluate our
capacity to recruit, implement the intervention, and retain participants with MCI in sufficient numbers for a
subsequent randomized-controlled trial evaluating the intervention's impact on participants' psychological well-
being, mood, and cognitive functioning. Older adults' mood, health status, and cognitive functioning will be
measured at baseline and follow-up using validated scales. Both members of a dyad will report satisfaction
with the interaction as well as barriers/facilitators to communication. In Aim 3, we will use mixed methods to
evaluate the communication process between older adults and ELLs including factors that contribute to
engagement in planned contacts, possible contributors to stress or dissatisfaction, and perceptions among
older adults of being appreciated and effective. We also will estimate variances for key outcome variables and
conduct exploratory analyses of intervention-control differences in participants' wellbeing, mood, and cognitive
functioning. This study will evaluate a highly-scalable strategy for increasing social engagement and preventing
cognitive decline among older adults with MCI. Because SPEAK! taps the...

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10163114
- **Project number:** 5R21AG066644-02
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR
- **Principal Investigator:** John D. Piette
- **Activity code:** R21 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $234,000
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2020-05-15 → 2023-02-28

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10163114

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10163114, A Scalable Model for Promoting Functioning and Well-Being among Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment via Meaningful Social Interactions: Project SPEAK! (5R21AG066644-02). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10163114. Licensed CC0.

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