UCSF

Background

Research suggest that mind-body movement programs have beneficial effects on cognitive outcomes for older adults with cognitive decline. However, few studies have directly compared specific approaches to mind-body movement or studied the impact of remote program delivery.

Methods

In a 3-arm randomized controlled trial (RCT) for older adults with cognitive impairment, we are comparing a multidomain mind-body program that emphasizes movement, body awareness, personal meaningfulness, and social connection, and a traditional Chinese mind-body exercise (Tai Chi) to a health and wellness education control condition. All 3 interventions are delivered remotely two times per week (onehour per session) for 12 weeks. The two active interventions are live-streamed. Outcomes are assessed prior to, after, and 6-months after the interventions. The co-primary outcomes are changes on the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale - Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-cog) and brain functional connectivity in the Default Mode Network (DMN). Secondary outcomes include measures of specific cognitive domains (e.g., executive function, attention), mobility, and self-report measures of general well-being, quality of life, social engagement, self- and attention-regulation.

Conclusion

This RCT will directly compare the effects of two mind-body movement programs versus an education control delivered remotely over 12 weeks on cognitive, neuroimaging, and participant-reported outcomes. If successful, these programs may provide scalable strategies for slowing cognitive decline, which could potentially delay dementia onset in some individuals.

Trial registration id

NCT05217849.