Adaptive computerized brain training to help people with mild cognitive impairment stay independent and delay dementia
ACTIVE MIND: An adaptive clinical trial of cognitive training to improve function and delay dementia
This project compares different computerized brain-training programs for people with mild cognitive impairment to find which best improves daily functioning and helps delay dementia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11180385 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you have mild cognitive impairment (MCI), you would be randomly assigned to one of several computerized cognitive training programs that focus on different thinking skills. The trial adapts over time by dropping less effective options and assigning more people to the better-performing programs. Researchers will measure changes in everyday functioning and follow participants over time to see who develops dementia. The main goal of this phase II trial is to identify the most helpful training exercises and estimate how much they can reduce the chance of progressing to dementia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment who can use a computer or tablet and attend study visits at participating sites.
Not a fit: People without cognitive impairment, those with advanced dementia, or individuals unable to participate in computerized training (for example due to severe sensory or motor limitations) are unlikely to benefit from this trial.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could identify brain-training exercises that improve daily function and lower the risk of developing dementia in people with MCI.
How similar studies have performed: Previous analyses from the ACTIVE trial reported that a specific computerized cognitive training reduced dementia risk in older adults (about 29% over 10 years) and suggested benefits for those with MCI, but this adaptive combination approach is new.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Edwards, Jerri — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Edwards, Jerri
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.