Impact of Regular Exercise on Brain Health in Older Adults
Effects of Regular Exercise on Cerebrovascular Reserve in Older Adults: Role in the Prevention of Age-Related Cognitive Decline
This study tests if regular aerobic exercise can improve brain health and thinking skills in older adults who usually don't get much physical activity.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 286 (estimated) |
| Ages | 55 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Calgary Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | prednisone |
| Locations | 1 site (Calgary, Alberta) |
| Trial ID | NCT03158337 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates how regular aerobic exercise affects cerebrovascular reserve and cognitive function in older adults who are typically sedentary. By focusing on individuals who engage in minimal physical activity, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms through which exercise may enhance brain blood flow and cognitive abilities. The findings could provide a scientific basis for future randomized clinical trials aimed at promoting physical activity as a means to improve cerebrovascular health and cognitive performance.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are older adults who are sedentary and meet specific health criteria, including a BMI under 35 and the ability to walk independently.
Not a fit: Patients with significant cardiovascular or cerebrovascular conditions, or those who have recently undergone major surgery or trauma, may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved cognitive health and reduced risk of vascular diseases in older adults through regular exercise.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results regarding the benefits of exercise on cognitive function and cerebrovascular health, suggesting that this approach is supported by existing evidence.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * sedentary status (engages in less than 30 minutes of moderate exercise four days per week or 20 continuous minutes of vigorous exercise two days per week), the ability to walk independently outside or on stairs, body mass index (BMI) \< 35 kg/m\^2, women were at least 12 months postmenopausal on entry into the study Exclusion Criteria: * heart/chest pain upon physical exertion, fainting spells/dizziness, surgery or major trauma in the previous 6 months, known asthma or sleep apnea, history of myocardial infarction, angina, arrhythmia, valve disease, chronic heart failure, history of stroke, cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease, history of chronic headache or migraines, history of blood clots/thrombosis, smokers (within last 12 months), currently taking medication (beta-blockers, anti-depressants, digitalis/digoxin, blood thinners (warfarin), evista (raloxifene), corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), adrenaline/epinephrine, anti-arrhythmics (e.g., norpace)).
Where this trial is running
Calgary, Alberta
- University of Calgary — Calgary, Alberta, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Marc J Poulin, PhD, DPhil — University of Calgary
- Study coordinator: Marc J Poulin, PhD, DPhil
- Email: poulin@ucalgary.ca
- Phone: 403-220-8372
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.