Motor-Cognitive Training for Older Adults at Risk of Dementia
Funded at University of Kansas Medical Center · NIH-11608108 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A Phase II trial tests a combined motor and cognitive training program for older adults at risk of dementia to see if it helps daily function and slows dementia onset.
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 start | September 20, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $287,744 |
| NIH project number | 1R56AG099116-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11608108 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Older adults at risk for dementia with slow gait speed and cognitive complaints who can participate in treadmill-based training.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals unable to participate in treadmill-based activities or with contraindications to exercise may not benefit.
What this research studies
This study recruits older adults with Motoric Cognitive Risk to test whether a virtual reality treadmill-based training that combines movement and thinking tasks can improve daily function and cognitive health. Participants will be randomly assigned to Motor-Cognitive Training or standard treadmill training, with outcomes measured right after the program and six months later. The research will also explore how the training affects cellular energy markers and brain activity, using blood tests and EEG, and will tailor intervention parameters using digital twin technology. The goal is to understand who benefits most and why, informing personalized approaches to delaying dementia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could help older adults maintain independence longer and reduce dementia risk.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work suggests physical and cognitive training can improve function, but this specific motor-cognitive approach with virtual reality and digital twin personalization is being tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kansas Medical Center
Kansas City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Devos, Hannes — University of Kansas Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Devos, Hannes
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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.