How different types of exercise affect brain health in older adults

Differential Effects of Exercise Modality on Cognition and Brain in Older Adults

NIH-funded research University of Kansas Medical Center · NIH-11087492

This study is looking at how different types of exercise, like walking or lifting weights, can help keep your brain healthy as you age, and it's for older adults between 65 and 80 who want to stay sharp and active.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kansas Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Kansas City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11087492 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how various exercise modalities, such as aerobic and resistance training, impact cognitive function and brain health in older adults aged 65 to 80. Participants will engage in a 52-week exercise program, where they will be randomly assigned to different exercise groups, including a control group. The study aims to determine the optimal combination of exercises to prevent cognitive decline and support successful aging. Additionally, it will explore the biological mechanisms that may connect exercise to improvements in brain health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 to 80 who do not have cognitive impairment.

Not a fit: Patients with existing cognitive impairment or those unable to participate in physical exercise may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help identify effective exercise strategies to enhance cognitive function and delay the onset of dementia in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using exercise to improve cognitive function in older adults, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Kansas City, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.