Exploring how Tai Chi may improve brain waste clearance and sleep in older adults.

Tai Chi Practice and Sleep-Active Glymphatic Function

NIH-funded research Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res · NIH-10754953

This study is looking at how practicing Tai Chi might help older adults at risk for Alzheimer's by improving their sleep and helping their brains clear out waste, which could be a step towards preventing or slowing down Alzheimer's symptoms.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSeattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-10754953 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential benefits of Tai Chi practice on the glymphatic system, which is responsible for clearing waste from the brain, particularly in older adults at risk for Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to understand how Tai Chi, known for its mindful movements and focus on breathing, can enhance sleep quality and promote the clearance of amyloid-β, a protein associated with Alzheimer's. By examining the relationship between Tai Chi, sleep, and brain health, the research seeks to identify non-invasive interventions that could help prevent or delay the onset of Alzheimer's symptoms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those at risk for or experiencing early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients who are not elderly or do not have any cognitive impairment related to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving brain health and preventing Alzheimer's disease in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in using Tai Chi to improve various health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be beneficial for brain health as well.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.