A program to engage people with memory challenges in outdoor activities
A Feasiblity Study of Green Activity Program for People Living With Memory Challenges
This study is testing a new outdoor activity program for people with memory challenges and their partners to see if it helps them feel better and enjoy nature more.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 45 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Indiana University Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | chemotherapy, radiation |
| Locations | 1 site (Bloomington, Indiana) |
| Trial ID | NCT06403345 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study tests the feasibility of the Green Activity Program, designed for individuals with memory challenges and their study partners. Participants will engage in enjoyable nature activities such as dog walking, hiking, outdoor yoga, and gardening over a 12-week period. The program aims to promote physical activity and enhance well-being through social interaction and connection with nature. Feedback will be collected from participants and outdoor activity professionals to evaluate the program's acceptability and identify areas for improvement.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged 45 and older who have memory challenges and can participate with a supportive study partner.
Not a fit: Patients with severe cardiovascular conditions or those currently undergoing cancer treatment may not benefit from this program.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could enhance the quality of life and well-being for individuals living with memory challenges.
How similar studies have performed: While similar programs focusing on outdoor activities for cognitive health are emerging, this specific approach is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 45 years or older * Has memory challenges or difficulties thinking * Have access and ability to respond to the telephone (mobile or landline) Study partner * 18 years or older * Speaks Spanish or English * Identified by the PLMC as a person they feel comfortable with who they would like to join them in the study. The study partner's participation is based on level of support needed for the PLMC. Outdoor activity professionals * 18 years or older * at least 1 year experience providing outdoor activities Exclusion Criteria: Participants living with memory challenges will be excluded if they do not meet inclusion criteria or if they indicate any of the following on the 2023 Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire + (PAR-Q+) : * Heart failure or, difficulty controlling Coronary Artery Disease, Diagnosed Abnormality of Heart Rhythm, or other cardiovascular condition. * If they report difficulty controlling CAD, Diagnosed abnormality of heart rhythm they will be excluded. * If they endorse a diagnosis of heart failure, AND report symptoms greater than NYHA Functional Classification Stage I: "No limitation of physical activity. Ordinary physical activity does not cause undue fatigue, palpitation or shortness of breath," they will be excluded. Research assistants will be trained to ask about these symptoms during usual activities of daily living. * If their doctor has told them not to participate in physical activity due to their heart condition or another medical condition, they will be excluded. * Cancer and are in an active cycle of infusion chemotherapy or daily radiation treatments. * People with cancer whose treatment regimen does not impact their day to day routines (e.g.-oral chemotherapy agents) may participate. Research assistants will be trained to ask about the impact of cancer and cancer care on day to day activities and physical activity. * If their doctor has told them not to participate in physical activity due to their cancer or cancer treatment or another medical condition, they will be excluded. * Experienced a black out, fainted, or lost consciousness as a result of a head injury in the past 12 months. * Often experienced signs and symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) following exercise and/or daily activities. * 2 or more hospitalizations in 6 months
Where this trial is running
Bloomington, Indiana
- Indiana University Bloomington — Bloomington, Indiana, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Rebecca Lassell, PhD — Indiana Unversity
- Study coordinator: Rebecca Lassell, PhD
- Email: blassell@iu.edu
- Phone: 812-855-2395
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.