Training to improve balance and cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment
Official title: Neuromechanisms of Falls in Older Adults With MCI: Targeting Assessment and Training of Reactive Balance Control
Run by University of Illinois Chicago · NCT04938349 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new training program that helps older adults with mild cognitive impairment improve their balance and thinking skills to reduce their risk of falling.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 55 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 142 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Illinois Chicago Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Chicago, Illinois) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 14, 2021 |
| Main results expected | March 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | July 10, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | July 8, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT04938349 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are older adults aged 55 and above who have been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with acute or chronic neurological conditions, such as stroke or Parkinson's disease, will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates a dual-task perturbation training approach aimed at enhancing balance and cognitive performance in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (OAwMCI). Participants will engage in treadmill training that induces balance challenges while simultaneously performing cognitive tasks, which is designed to improve their reactive responses to balance loss. The study will assess the feasibility, applicability, and tolerability of this training method, as well as its effects on biomechanical and neuromuscular responses during balance control. The ultimate goal is to develop effective strategies to reduce fall risk and promote healthy aging in this population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this training could significantly reduce the risk of falls and improve mobility in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using dual-task training to improve balance and cognitive function, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age group: Older adults between the age group \> 55 years old with MOCA less than 26 out of 30 will be classified as mild cognitive impairment and those above 26 out of 30 as cognitively intact older adults . * Absence of any acute or chronic neurological (Stroke, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease), cardiopulmonary, musculoskeletal, or systemic diagnosis. * No recent major surgery (\< 6 months) or hospitalization (\< 3 months) * Not on any sedative drugs * Can understand and communicate in English * Ability to walk more than 10 meters without an assistive device Exclusion Criteria: * Participants will not proceed with the study if any of the following occurs at baseline measurement: 1) HR \> 85% of age-predicted maximal heart rate (HRmax) (HRmax = 220 - age), 2) systolic blood pressure (SBP) \> 165 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) \> 110 mmHg during resting), and/or 3) oxygen saturation (measured by pulse oximeter) during resting \< 90%. * History of bone fracture or significant other systemic disease or surgery in the last six months * Specific to MRI participants: Self-reported presence of a pacemaker, metal implants other than orthopedic implants, and/or Claustrophobia, cataract surgery (lens not compatible to the MRI confirmed by the MRI technician) * Weighs \> 220 lbs (Harness weight threshold)
Where it's running
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University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, Illinois, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Tanvi Bhatt — University of Illinois Chicago
- Study coordinator: Tanvi S Bhatt
- Email: tbhatt6@uic.edu
- Phone: 312-355-4443
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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.