Using passive heating to improve health in older adults
The Effects of Chronic Passive Heating on Vascular Function, Cognitive Function, Muscle Function and Heat Shock Protein Responses in Middle-aged to Older Adults: a Randomised, Controlled Crossover Trial
This study is testing if using heat therapy, like saunas or hot baths, can help older adults improve their heart health, brain function, and muscle strength when they can't exercise as much.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 55 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Portsmouth Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Portsmouth, Hampshire) |
| Trial ID | NCT05618197 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of passive heat therapy on cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and muscle strength in healthy older adults. It aims to provide an alternative to traditional exercise for those who may have difficulty adhering to physical activity due to age-related limitations. Participants aged 55 and older will undergo passive heating interventions, such as hot water immersion or sauna use, to assess potential health benefits. The study seeks to explore whether these methods can mimic the positive effects of exercise on overall health.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy adults aged 55 and older who do not have any cardiometabolic diseases.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of cardiovascular, respiratory, or other significant medical conditions may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could offer a viable alternative for older adults to maintain or improve their health without the need for strenuous exercise.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with passive heat therapy, suggesting it may be a novel and effective approach for improving health in older populations.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Male or female age ≥ 55 * Free from cardiometabolic disease * Body mass index of 18-35 kg/m2 * Receipt of a normal 12-lead ECG approved by the School Independent Medical Officer * Capacity to understand and provide their written, informed consent to participate in the study protocol Exclusion Criteria: * Unable to understand or cooperate with the study protocol due to learning difficulties or otherwise * Any current, or past medical (last five years), history of any cardiovascular, respiratory, cancer, renal, hepatic, gastrointestinal, haematological, lymphatic, neurological, psychiatric, or any other disease or diseases. * Any regular medication for the last five years (not including acute courses of treatment of less than one month for discrete, resolved conditions). * Medications that may influence physiological responses to the passive heating intervention Uncontrolled hypertension (≥ 150 mmHg systolic and/or ≥ 90 mmHg diastolic) * Body mass index of \> 35 kg/m2 * Recent long-term exposure to a hot climate (within the previous three months) * Current smoker (or have stopped smoking within the previous three months)
Where this trial is running
Portsmouth, Hampshire
- Spinnaker Building — Portsmouth, Hampshire, United Kingdom (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Ant Shepherd, PhD
- Email: ant.shepherd@port.ac.uk
- Phone: +442392845289
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.