Using virtual reality to improve brain health in older adults at risk for Alzheimer's disease
Targeted Physical and Cognitive Activity in a VR Environment in Older Adults at Risk for Alzheimer's Disease
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-11054553
This study is exploring how using virtual reality can help older adults with mild cognitive impairment improve their memory and thinking skills while staying active, making exercise more fun and effective for brain health.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11054553 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of a virtual reality (VR) environment to combine physical and cognitive activities aimed at enhancing brain health in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a precursor to Alzheimer's disease. Participants will engage in VR exercises that challenge both their physical abilities and cognitive skills, potentially leading to improved memory and cognitive function. The study seeks to create a safe and adaptable environment where older adults can train their brains while being physically active, addressing the limitations of traditional exercise programs. By focusing on spatial memory and cognitive engagement during exercise, the research aims to find effective interventions for delaying or preventing the onset of Alzheimer's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 21 and above who have been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or severe cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative interventions that significantly improve cognitive health and delay the progression of Alzheimer's disease in at-risk older adults.
How similar studies have performed: While exercise has been shown to enhance cognition, this specific approach using VR to combine physical and cognitive activities is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PA, JUDY — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: PA, JUDY
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 below.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia