Exercise and cognitive training to improve gait in older Veterans with MS
Official title: The Effect of Exercise With and Without Cognitive Training on Gait in Older Veterans with Multiple Sclerosis
Funded at Veterans Health Administration · NIH-11338209 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A program tests whether combining walking with resistance training and computer-based cognitive training helps older Veterans with multiple sclerosis walk better and stay safer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Health Administration NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Decatur, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | July 1, 2026 |
| Project end | June 30, 2032 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| NIH project number | 1IK2RD000353-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11338209 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Older adults (55+) with multiple sclerosis and gait impairments who are receiving VA care.
✕Less likely to help
People without MS or those unable to participate in physical or cognitive training may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project blends walking practice, strength work, and brain training to see if together they reduce fall risk for older Veterans with MS. It uses familiar tools like walking sessions and an Apple Watch to track progress and safety. If successful, it could lead to simple, accessible ways to maintain independence and reduce injuries in this population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Possibly fewer falls and better balance for older Veterans with MS, leading to greater independence and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: prior research suggests combined physical and cognitive training can improve function, but results in MS-focused, older Veterans are novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Veterans Health Administration
Decatur, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hsieh, Katherine — Veterans Health Administration
- Study coordinator: Hsieh, Katherine
Related research
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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.