Cognitive and physical training for patients with COPD

Feasibility of a Home-Based Cognitive-Physical Exercise Program in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Patients: a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional University Health Network, Toronto · NCT05140226

This study is testing a new 8-week home program that combines brain exercises and physical training to see if it helps people with moderate to severe COPD feel better and improve their daily lives.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment24 (estimated)
Ages50 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Health Network, Toronto Academic / other
Locations1 site (Toronto, Ontario)
Trial IDNCT05140226 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research evaluates the feasibility and efficacy of an 8-week home-based cognitive-physical training program for patients with moderate to severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Participants will be randomly assigned to either a cognitive-physical training group or a physical training group, with interventions conducted remotely. The study aims to assess adherence, satisfaction, and the impact of the training on cognitive performance, physical function, and overall quality of life. Weekly follow-up video calls will ensure participant engagement and monitor progress.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 50 and older with a clinical diagnosis of COPD who can mobilize independently and have access to a reliable internet connection.

Not a fit: Patients currently participating in a pulmonary rehabilitation program or those with severe cognitive impairments or other significant health issues may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly enhance cognitive and physical performance in COPD patients, improving their daily functioning and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success in cognitive training for improving cognitive performance, but this combined approach in COPD patients is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adult participants (≥ 50 years of age)
* Clinical and spirometric diagnosis of COPD (FEV1 30-80%)
* Access to reliable internet connection
* Ability to mobilize independently and safely, with or without a walking aid

Exclusion Criteria:

* Current participation in a pulmonary rehabilitation program
* Disease exacerbation in the past 3 months
* Diagnosis of a neurological or musculoskeletal condition that would interfere with safe performance of study tests (e.g., stroke, myopathy, inflammatory arthritis)
* Severe cognitive impairment ascertained by chart review or self-reported
* Coronary artery disease, pacemaker or implantable defibrillator, clinical diagnosis of congestive heart failure (CHF), or poorly controlled arrhythmias
* Medical instability (hepatic dysfunction, metabolic abnormalities, or active infection)
* Overt psychiatric disorder or substance abuse
* Patient on home oxygen therapy
* Insufficient English fluency and cognition to carry out testing and training
* Patient actively listed for lung transplantation

Where this trial is running

Toronto, Ontario

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Pulmonary Disease, Chronic ObstructiveCognitive TrainingPhysical TrainingRandomized Controlled TrialHome-based ProgramChronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.