High-intensity exercise to improve cognitive function in older adults with HIV

Examining the Effect of High-Intensity Exercise to Attenuate Cognitive Function Limitations and Train Exercise Habits in Older People Living with HIV (HEALTH-Cog)

NIH-funded research University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11081685

This study is looking at how high-intensity interval training (HIIT) can help older adults with HIV boost their thinking skills and stick to a regular exercise routine, by comparing it to moderate exercise over four months and using text messages to keep everyone motivated.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11081685 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how high-intensity interval training (HIIT) can help older adults living with HIV improve their cognitive function and establish regular exercise habits. The study will involve participants engaging in either HIIT or continuous moderate exercise over four months, with the goal of assessing improvements in physical function and cognitive health. Additionally, a text-messaging intervention will be used to encourage adherence to physical activity. By focusing on this specific population, the research aims to address the unique challenges faced by older individuals living with HIV.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 50 and above who are living with HIV and are at risk for cognitive decline.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those who are unable to participate in physical exercise may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cognitive health and better quality of life for older adults living with HIV.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that high-intensity exercise can lead to significant improvements in physical and cognitive outcomes, suggesting a promising approach for this population.

Where this research is happening

Birmingham, 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 Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.