NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Improving motivation in older adults through diet and exercise

Official title: Lifestyle intervention to treat apathy in older adults

Funded at Lsu Pennington Biomedical Research Ctr · NIH-10848448 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a special diet with whole soybean pods and exercise can help older adults who are overweight and have insulin resistance feel more motivated and engaged in their daily lives.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLsu Pennington Biomedical Research Ctr
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baton Rouge, United States)
Project startSeptember 15, 2020
Project endMay 31, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$249,000
NIH project number5R00AG065419-05
Project IDNIH-10848448 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are older adults over 70 years of age who are experiencing apathy and have obesity or insulin resistance.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not elderly or do not exhibit symptoms of apathy or insulin resistance may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how a low glycemic index diet combined with exercise can help reduce apathy in older adults, particularly those with obesity and insulin resistance. The study aims to determine the effectiveness of a novel dietary intervention using whole soybean pods alongside traditional dietary methods. Participants will engage in a structured program that includes dietary changes and exercise over a specified period. The goal is to enhance insulin sensitivity, which may lead to improved motivation and emotional engagement in daily activities.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the quality of life for older adults by reducing apathy and enhancing emotional well-being.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in using dietary and exercise interventions to improve insulin sensitivity and related symptoms in older populations.

Where this research is happening

  • Lsu Pennington Biomedical Research Ctr
    Baton Rouge, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Rebello, Candida Joan — Lsu Pennington Biomedical Research Ctr
  • Study coordinator: Rebello, Candida Joan

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.