Mindful walking and its effect on executive function in older adults at risk for dementia
Official title: The Impact of Mindful Walking on Neural Correlates of Executive Function in SC Older Adults at Risk of Alzheimer's and Dementias
Run by University of South Carolina · NCT07638046 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether mindful walking can help cognitive function in older adults who are at higher risk for dementia.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 2 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 60 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 54 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of South Carolina Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Columbia, South Carolina) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 26, 2026 |
| Main results expected | September 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | November 17, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | July 10, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07638046 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 60+ who are sedentary and have at least one ADRD risk factor (family history, subjective cognitive complaints, or BMI >= 25).
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with current ADRD, major brain disorders, or inability to complete mobile assessments may be less likely to benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This phase 2 randomized pilot trial compares mindful walking to walking alone in adults aged 60 and older who are sedentary and have at least one risk factor for dementia. Brain activity will be measured with functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to explore neural changes associated with executive function. The study aims to determine feasibility, safety, and potential cognitive benefits to inform a future larger trial.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, mindful walking could help maintain or improve thinking skills in older adults at risk for dementia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous mindful walking studies focused on stress and mood; this trial tests cognitive effects and neural correlates, representing a novel extension.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Age 60 or older 2. Sedentary (sit ≥9hrs per day) and not meeting the US physical activity guidelines 3. Have at least one of the following ADRD risk factors: i. family history of ADRD (\>= first-degree relative) ii. subjective experience of cognitive complaints iii. currently overweight or obese (BMI≥25) 4. Adequate hearing, visual and cognitive ability to complete study tasks and assessments 5. Able to walk without others' assistance 6. Medically stable with or without medication (do not expect to have major health status changes or a surgery in the next 4 months) Exclusion Criteria: 1. Diagnosis of ADRD or other brain abnormalities (i.e., strokes, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease) 2. Diagnosis of mental disorders (i.e., depression) 3. Inability to complete surveys on mobile device or wear the activity monitor (i.e., due to arthritis, physical limitations, or other reasons) 4. Plan to move or have surgery in next 4 months 5. Currently participate in other study involving physical activity or cognitive training that may interfere with the study outcomes 6. Unable to provide consent due to disabilities
Where it's running
-
University of South Carolina
Columbia, South Carolina, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Halle Prine, MS
- Email: HPRINE@email.sc.edu
- Phone: 8039997392
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.