Guided Imagery to Boost Exercise and Support Healthy Brain Aging in Mid-Life Adults
Guided Episodic Future Thinking to Increase Physical Activity Adherence and Promote Healthy Brain Aging Among Mid-Life Adults
This project explores how guided imagery can help mid-life adults stick with physical activity to keep their brains healthy as they get older.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kansas Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kansas City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11109430 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many adults find it hard to exercise regularly, which is important for both physical and brain health. This project aims to create new ways to help people overcome common barriers like lack of time or not enjoying exercise. We are developing a special guided imagery technique designed to engage parts of the brain that control rewards and self-regulation. The goal is to make exercise more appealing and easier to stick with, ultimately promoting better brain health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are mid-life adults, aged 21 and older, who are interested in increasing their physical activity and supporting healthy brain aging, especially those concerned about Alzheimer's disease prevention.
Not a fit: Patients who are not mid-life adults or who are not able to engage in physical activity may not directly benefit from this specific intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a new, accessible tool to help mid-life adults maintain consistent physical activity, potentially reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease and promoting overall brain health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown connections between self-regulation, positive feelings, and exercise, and preliminary data suggests that targeting reward and regulation systems can encourage healthy choices.
Where this research is happening
Kansas City, United States
- University of Kansas Medical Center — Kansas City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Martin, Laura E — University of Kansas Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Martin, Laura E
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.