The impact of exercise and mindfulness on brain health in older adults during stress.

Resilience and brain health of older adults

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-11136476

This study is looking at how exercise and mindfulness can help older adults manage stress, especially during tough times like the COVID-19 pandemic, and it aims to see if these activities can boost brain health and lower the risk of Alzheimer's Disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11136476 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how exercise and mindfulness practices can help older adults cope with stress, particularly during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. By studying participants who are engaged in a program focused on these interventions, the research aims to assess their effects on cognitive function and emotional health over several years. The study will utilize various measures, including clinical assessments and neuroimaging, to understand how these practices may reduce the risk of Alzheimer's Disease and improve overall brain health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are experiencing stress, particularly related to social isolation or the impacts of the pandemic.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing significant stress or those with advanced Alzheimer's Disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide older adults with effective strategies to enhance their cognitive and emotional well-being during stressful periods.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that exercise and mindfulness can positively impact mental health, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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.