Using Tai Ji Quan to help older adults with cognitive decline
Official title: Efficacy of Adapted Tai Ji Quan to Slow Cognitive Decline in Older Adults
Funded at Oregon Research Institute · NIH-10602398 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special Tai Ji Quan exercise program can help older adults with mild cognitive impairment stay sharp and improve their daily activities by combining movement with brain-boosting challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Springfield, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 15, 2019 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $779,947 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG059546-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10602398 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 21 and above who are experiencing mild cognitive impairment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with severe cognitive impairment or those who are unable to participate in physical activities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of a specially adapted Tai Ji Quan exercise program designed to enhance cognitive function in older adults experiencing mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The program combines physical exercise with cognitive challenges to stimulate brain activity while improving physical health. Participants will engage in activities that require multitasking and cognitive engagement, aiming to slow down cognitive decline. The study will assess the effectiveness of this intervention in improving daily living functions and overall cognitive health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help older adults maintain their cognitive abilities and improve their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar exercise interventions that combine physical and cognitive training for older adults.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Research Institute
Springfield, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Fuzhong — Oregon Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Li, Fuzhong
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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.