Non-invasive brain stimulation plus exercise for prefrail older adults
Official title: Effectiveness of Non-invasive Brain Stimulation on Functional Capacity in Prefrail Older Adults
Run by University of Valencia · NCT07346989 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether non-invasive brain stimulation combined with an exercise program can improve functional capacity and quality of life in prefrail older adults.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 65 Years to 90 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 80 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Valencia Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Valencia, Valencia) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 15, 2026 |
| Main results expected | July 2028 |
| Study ends | July 2028 |
| Registry record updated | July 6, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07346989 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 65–90 who are prefrail and can understand instructions, able to consent, meeting 1–2 Fried frailty criteria.
✕Probably not a fit
Those who do not complete at least 80% of training sessions or have contraindications to neuromodulation or exercise.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Two sub-studies will test different non-invasive neuromodulation approaches: virtual running and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), each with a placebo control. The researchers will measure changes in gait speed, physical condition, frailty status, balance and gait quality, limb strength, quality of life, and neuroplasticity indicated by plasma BDNF levels. Participants will be adults aged 65 to 90 who are prefrail and able to consent, with several safety exclusions. The study compares the two active interventions and their respective placebos to see which adds benefit when paired with a therapeutic exercise program.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience improved mobility, strength, and overall function, potentially slowing progression of frailty.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work in neuromodulation and exercise suggests potential for functional gains, though results can vary by modality and population.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age between 65 -90 years old * Meet 1-2 frailty criteria, according to Fried's Criteria. * Ability to understand instructions (Mini-Mental State Examination \>23 points). * Signing of the informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * History of stroke within the past 6 months or hospital admission for any reason within the past 3 months. * Alterations of the central or peripheral nervous system * Alterations of the vestibular system * Concomitant diseases * Have a neurological pathology, cardiovascular musculoskeletal that contraindicates physical activity * Epilepsy or history, medications that lower the seizure threshold * Cardiac pacemaker, endocranial and hearing implants * History of severe headaches * Uncontrolled intracranial or arterial hypertension * Heart and/or respiratory failure * Implanted medication pump * Skin lesions (psoriasis, eczema) * Serious head surgeries * Completing less than 80% of training sessions
Where it's running
-
University of Valencia
Valencia, Valencia, Spain Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Marta Inglés de la Torre, PHD
- Email: marta.ingles@uv.es
- Phone: 0034963864003
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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.