Using walking exercises and brain stimulation to improve brain function in older adults
Official title: Cognitively engaging walking exercise and neuromodulation to enhance brain function in older adults
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11123094 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring whether doing fun and challenging walking exercises along with a gentle brain stimulation can help improve thinking and walking skills in older adults who may be at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,196,816 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG081477-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11123094 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing cognitive decline or at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with severe cognitive impairment or those unable to participate in walking exercises may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how combining cognitively engaging walking exercises with a mild form of brain stimulation can enhance brain function in older adults. The study focuses on the relationship between cognitive decline and walking ability, particularly in those at risk for Alzheimer's disease. Participants will engage in complex walking tasks while receiving transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to stimulate brain areas involved in executive function. The goal is to improve both cognitive and walking performance through this innovative approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cognitive function and mobility in older adults, potentially delaying the onset of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar interventions, indicating potential for success in this Phase 2 study.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Clark, David J — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Clark, David J
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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.