A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of a Social Network Intervention for Older Patients With Cancer

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the SONATA intervention in a pilot randomized controlled trial involving 70 older adults aged 65 and older with advanced cancer. The study aims to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and structure of SONATA, a social network-based program designed to improve patient activation and quality of life for this vulnerable population facing functional and cognitive challenges, as well as depressive and anxiety symptoms. This intervention is compared to enhanced usual care to see preliminary effects. The SONATA intervention consists of up to six coaching sessions delivered either in person or via Zoom over about six weeks. These sessions help patients set personal well-being goals, identify and map their social networks, engage key members, create communication channels, build communication skills, and respond to their changing needs. The control group receives standard educational materials within four weeks of randomization. Participants will be involved from baseline through week 16, during which researchers will assess study feasibility along with emotional, social, and existential quality of life, patient activation, autonomy, competence, relatedness, and social support. The study includes monitoring patient responses and feedback throughout the intervention period. The total participation time extends to about 16 weeks, covering treatment and follow-up assessments to evaluate the intervention's impact.

A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of a Social Network Intervention