Water-based exercise and cognitive training for veterans with memory issues

Water-based Activity to Enhance Recall in Veterans: A Randomized Clinical Trial

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VETERANS ADMIN PALO ALTO HEALTH CARE SYS · NIH-10909816

This study is looking to see if doing water exercises along with brain training can help improve memory and thinking skills in veterans with Mild Cognitive Impairment, and it’s open to veterans aged 50-90 who want to boost their mental and physical health.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVETERANS ADMIN PALO ALTO HEALTH CARE SYS (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PALO ALTO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10909816 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates whether a combination of water-based exercise and cognitive training can improve memory and cognitive function in veterans experiencing Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Participants will engage in a six-month program that includes thrice-weekly group sessions focused on water-based exercises alongside cognitive training activities. The study will compare the outcomes of this combined approach to a usual care control group, assessing improvements in cognitive abilities and overall physical health. The trial aims to include 190 veterans aged 50-90, providing a structured environment for both physical and mental engagement.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans aged 50-90 who have been diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have Mild Cognitive Impairment or are outside the age range of 50-90 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cognitive function and quality of life for veterans with Mild Cognitive Impairment.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that combined physical and cognitive interventions can be beneficial for cognitive health, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

PALO ALTO, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease, Alzheimer's disease risk

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.