Using passive heating to improve health in older adults
Official title: The Time Course of Cardiovascular Function, Cognitive Function and Heat Shock Proteins in Response to Acute Passive Heating in Older Adults
Run by University of Portsmouth · NCT05622747 · Data updated 2026-05-14
This study is no longer in our active list. It may have stopped recruiting or finished. The details below are as of 2026-05-14 and are kept for reference. Check ClinicalTrials.gov for its current status, or see similar studies below.
This study is testing if using heat, like saunas or hot baths, can help older adults feel better and improve their heart and brain health when they can't exercise.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 55 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Portsmouth Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Portsmouth, Hampshire) |
| Trial ID | NCT05622747 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are healthy older adults aged 55 and above who do not have any cardiometabolic diseases.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with a history of cardiovascular, respiratory, or other significant medical conditions may 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 the effects of passive heat therapy on cardiovascular health and cognitive function in healthy older adults aged 55 and above. The approach involves using methods such as hot water immersion or sauna to simulate the health benefits typically gained from exercise. By exploring this alternative, the study aims to provide a solution for older individuals who may struggle with traditional exercise due to physical limitations or medical conditions. The research will assess improvements in vascular function and overall health outcomes following passive heating sessions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could offer a viable alternative for older adults to enhance their cardiovascular and cognitive health without the need for strenuous exercise.
How similar studies have gone: While the concept of passive heat therapy is gaining interest, this specific approach is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in this population.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
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Spinnaker Building
Portsmouth, Hampshire, United Kingdom Recruiting
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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.