Cognitively engaging walking exercise and brain stimulation for older adults
Cognitively Engaging Walking Exercise and Neuromodulation to Enhance Brain Function in Older Adults
NA · University of Florida · NCT05830942
This study is testing if combining brain stimulation with fun walking exercises can help older adults with mild to moderate cognitive decline improve their thinking and walking skills.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 120 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Florida (other) |
| Locations | 2 sites (Gainesville, Florida and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT05830942 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of combining cognitively engaging walking exercises with non-invasive electrical brain stimulation on cognitive and mobility functions in older adults. Participants will engage in complex walking tasks while receiving either active or sham transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over a period of six weeks. The primary outcomes will assess improvements in executive function and walking abilities through standardized assessments. The trial aims to enroll up to 120 older adults with mild to moderate cognitive decline, conducted at two sites in Florida.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults aged 65 and above with mild to moderate cognitive decline who can walk independently.
Not a fit: Patients with major cognitive disorders or those on medications affecting neuroplasticity may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance cognitive and mobility functions in older adults, potentially improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using tDCS for cognitive enhancement, but this specific combination of interventions is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 65+ * Objective executive function decline, based on standardized cognitive assessments. * Subjective cognitive decline, based on the question: "During the past 12 months, have you experienced confusion or memory loss that is happening more often or getting worse?" * Ability to walking independently for 6 minutes (use of cane permitted) Exclusion Criteria: * Major cognitive disorder that interferes with independence * Percentile score less than 10th percentile on standardized cognitive assessments * Medications that are thought to influence tDCS neuroplasticity. * Contraindications to tDCS or MRI.
Where this trial is running
Gainesville, Florida and 1 other locations
- University of Florida — Gainesville, Florida, United States (RECRUITING)
- Brooks Rehabilitation — Jacksonville, Florida, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: David J Clark, ScD — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: David J Clark, ScD
- Email: davidclark@ufl.edu
- Phone: 352-376-1611
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.
Conditions: Cognitive Dysfunction, Mobility Limitation, Frail Elderly