How exercise affects brain health in older adults with dementia

Physical Activity and Dementia: Mechanisms of Action

NIH-funded research Adventhealth Orlando · NIH-11094806

This study is looking at how staying active can help improve brain health in older adults with Alzheimer's and similar conditions, and it aims to find ways to make it easier for them to keep exercising regularly.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAdventhealth Orlando NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Orlando, United States)
Project IDNIH-11094806 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of physical activity on cognitive function in older adults, particularly those with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. It aims to uncover the mechanisms by which exercise influences brain health and identify factors that affect individual responses to exercise. The study will also explore how to encourage long-term exercise habits among older adults, addressing barriers they may face. By understanding these elements, the research seeks to provide actionable insights for improving cognitive health through physical activity.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing cognitive impairment or who have severe physical limitations that prevent them from participating in exercise may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective exercise-based interventions that enhance cognitive function and quality of life for individuals with dementia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results regarding the benefits of exercise on cognitive function in older adults, suggesting that this approach has potential for significant impact.

Where this research is happening

Orlando, 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 dementia
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.