Tai Chi for Older Adults with Cognitive Concerns
Project Gnosis: the Neural, Physical, and Psychosocial Processes and Health Outcomes of an 8-week Tai Chi Intervention in Older Adults with and Without Mild Cognitive Impairment
This study tests if an 8-week Tai Chi program can help older adults with mild cognitive impairment and muscle loss improve their thinking skills and overall well-being.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 60 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Ohio University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Athens, Ohio) |
| Trial ID | NCT06828926 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of Tai Chi on older adults experiencing Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and sarcopenia. It aims to assess the relationship between heart rate variability, cortical activity, and cognitive function, while also examining how pain and social isolation impact cognitive performance. Participants will engage in an 8-week Tai Chi program, with evaluations conducted before and after the intervention to measure changes in cognitive and psychosocial outcomes. The study also explores the influence of sarcopenia and obesity on cognitive function.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults aged 60 and above who have Mild Cognitive Impairment or are age-gender matched healthy controls.
Not a fit: Patients with significant uncontrolled medical conditions or those requiring assistive devices for mobility may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance cognitive function and overall well-being in older adults with MCI.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive outcomes for Tai Chi in improving cognitive function and physical health in older adults, suggesting this approach may be effective.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Participants who are older adults, defined as ≥60 years old. 2. Participants must have the ability to independently stand without the use of an assistive device for 20 minutes. 3. People with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) (initial cohort) and without MCI (age-gender matched healthy controls). A score of between \>18 and ≤26 on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) will be used to classify MCI. A score above 26 is considered normal. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Participants with significant uncontrolled medication, and cardiovascular, respiratory, and metabolic symptoms will be excluded from participation in the study, as these symptoms could impact their engagement with the engagement of Tai Chi. 2. Investigators will administer a brief screening questionnaire to assess (a) hypotension symptoms related to intensive treatment of hypertension and (b) hypoglycemia related to intensive treatment of diabetes, as these conditions are associated with cognitive decline. 3. Investigators will capture data on potential sleep apnea and administer the Stop-Bang Questionnaire to identify potential sleep-disordered breathing. Participants with significant uncontrolled sleep apnea will be excluded as this could also impact their engagement in the intervention and influence the primary outcome measure of cognitive function. 2\. Currently or recently practicing Tai Chi. Participants will be excluded if they are currently practicing Tai Chi. If participants have previously engaged in Tai Chi, there will be a washout period of at least 6 months before considering enrollment in the study.
Where this trial is running
Athens, Ohio
- Ohio University — Athens, Ohio, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Nicholas Karayannis, MPT, PhD
- Email: nvkaray@ohio.edu
- Phone: +1 740-593-1044
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.