Investigating the links between sleep, balance, and cognition in older adults

Lagged Relationships Between Sleep, Balance, and Cognition in Older Adults

University of Florida · NCT06584136

This study looks at how sleep quality affects balance and thinking skills in older adults over six weeks to see if better sleep can help them stay healthy and active.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages65 Years to 95 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Florida (other)
Locations1 site (Gainesville, Florida)
Trial IDNCT06584136 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study examines how sleep quality affects balance and cognitive function in older adults over a six-week period. Participants will wear a device to monitor their sleep and will undergo weekly assessments of their balance and cognitive abilities. The study utilizes standardized tests such as the Mini-BESTest for balance and the NIH Toolbox Cognitive Battery for cognition. By analyzing the data collected, researchers aim to uncover important relationships that could inform strategies for enhancing the health and well-being of older adults.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy older adults aged 65 and above who are independent in daily activities and able to walk with minimal assistance.

Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive impairments, significant neurological conditions, or unstable medical conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved strategies for maintaining cognitive function and balance in older adults, potentially reducing fall risk and enhancing quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this study may be novel, previous research has indicated that sleep quality can significantly impact cognitive and physical health in older adults.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Healthy older adults aged 65 and above English-speaking Independent in daily activities Able to walk independently or with minimal assistance (cane or walker) Willing to perform weekly assessments in balance and cognition at the University of Florida, Technology for Occupational Performance Lab

Exclusion Criteria:

Severe cognitive impairment (e.g., diagnosed dementia) Severe sleep disorders (e.g., sleep apnea requiring CPAP) Significant neurological conditions (e.g., Parkinson disease, stroke) Unstable medical conditions (e.g., uncontrolled hypertension, recent surgeries)

Where this trial is running

Gainesville, Florida

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Aging, Sleep Quality, Balance Assessment, Older Adults, Cognitive Function, Sleep Monitoring, Wearable device

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.