Cognitively enriched walking program for older adults
Evaluating the Effects of a Cognitively Enriched Walking Program for Older Adults on Cognitive Functioning, Psychosocial Wellbeing and Physical Activity: a Randomized Controlled Trial
This study tests a walking program that includes brain exercises to see if it can help older adults think better and slow down memory loss.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 113 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Ghent Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Ghent, East-Flanders and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT05500183 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates a walking program that incorporates cognitive exercises to enhance brain function in older adults. It aims to leverage the brain's plasticity to improve cognitive abilities and potentially mitigate the effects of aging-related cognitive decline. Participants will engage in this program over a six-month period, with the goal of assessing its effectiveness in a real-life setting rather than controlled laboratory conditions. The program is designed based on input from experts and community members to ensure its relevance and applicability.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are community-dwelling individuals aged 65 and older who are physically capable of walking approximately three kilometers in one hour.
Not a fit: Patients with neurodegenerative disorders, mild cognitive impairment, or psychiatric conditions may not benefit from this program.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve cognitive functions in older adults, potentially delaying or reducing the onset of dementia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using physical activity combined with cognitive tasks to enhance brain function, suggesting this approach may be effective.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. male and female volunteers 2. aged 65 years and older 3. community-dwelling Exclusion Criteria: 1. Have a neurodegenerative disorder (i.e. Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Multiple Sclerosis,...); 2. Are diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI); 3. Are diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder (e.g. schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder,...); 4. Are currently having a depressive episode; 5. Have had a serious brain injury in the past year, or before and still experience consequences (i.e. traumatic brain injury, stroke, brain haemorrhage); 6. Have a history of, or current, addiction to drugs or excessive alcohol abuse; 7. Are not able to walk approximately three kilometres in one hour (at an average walking pace); 8. Make use of a walking aid (i.e. a cane, a (rollator) walker, or a wheelchair); 9. One or both of their parents were diagnosed with juvenile dementia; 10. Know in advance that they will not be will not be present for one or more periods of longer than one month (e.g. because of a long holiday).
Where this trial is running
Ghent, East-Flanders and 1 other locations
- Ghent University — Ghent, East-Flanders, Belgium (Recruiting)
- KU Leuven — Leuven, Vlaams Brabant, Belgium (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Pauline Hotterbeex, MSc — Ghent University / KU Leuven
- Study coordinator: Greet Cardon, PhD
- Email: Greet.Cardon@ugent.be
- Phone: +32 9 264 91 42
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.