Using goal setting to encourage physical activity and reduce Alzheimer's risk in midlife adults

Goal Setting to Promote Physical Activity Adherence in Midlife to Reduce Risk of Alzheimer's Disease and Related-Dementias: A Randomized Mechanistic Proof-of-Concept Trial

NIH-funded research Arizona State University-Tempe Campus · NIH-11160178

This study is looking at how different ways of setting goals can help middle-aged adults get more active, which is important for lowering the chances of developing Alzheimer's and similar conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionArizona State University-Tempe Campus NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tempe, United States)
Project IDNIH-11160178 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how different goal-setting techniques can help midlife adults increase their physical activity levels, which is important for reducing the risk of Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias. The study will involve a two-phase approach, starting with a pilot phase to refine the intervention, followed by a larger trial to test the effectiveness of these techniques over nine months. Participants will be monitored for their physical activity using accelerometers, and the study aims to enhance self-regulation and self-efficacy to promote adherence to physical activity guidelines. By focusing on midlife adults who are currently insufficiently active, the research seeks to identify effective strategies for improving their health outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are midlife adults who are currently not meeting physical activity guidelines and may be at risk for Alzheimer's Disease.

Not a fit: Patients who are already highly active or those with advanced Alzheimer's Disease or related dementias may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective strategies for midlife adults to reduce their risk of Alzheimer's Disease through increased physical activity.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that lifestyle interventions, including physical activity promotion, can be effective in reducing Alzheimer's risk, making this approach promising.

Where this research is happening

Tempe, 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.