Exploring how music can encourage older adults to be more physically active
Official title: Unraveling the mechanisms of a novel music intervention for physical activity promotion in older adults
Funded at University of North Carolina Greensboro · NIH-10925342 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how listening to music while exercising can help older adults, especially those at risk for Alzheimer's, feel better and stick to their workout routines more easily.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of North Carolina Greensboro NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Greensboro, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $314,166 |
| NIH project number | 5R61AG084479-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10925342 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 60 and above who are currently low-active and at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already highly active or those with advanced Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of music as a tool to promote physical activity among older adults, particularly those at risk for Alzheimer's disease. The study focuses on how listening to rhythmic music during exercise can enhance mood and reduce the perception of effort, making it easier for older adults to engage in regular physical activity. By utilizing a method called Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation, the research aims to determine if this musical intervention can lead to increased adherence to exercise guidelines among low-active seniors. Participants will be monitored for changes in their physical activity levels and overall well-being.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help older adults maintain a more active lifestyle, potentially delaying or preventing the onset of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results using music to enhance physical activity in older adults, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of North Carolina Greensboro
Greensboro, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Etnier, Jennifer L — University of North Carolina Greensboro
- Study coordinator: Etnier, Jennifer L
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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.