Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?Dementia is one of the most pressing health care issues of the 21st century. Evidence suggests that exercise enhances cognitive function in healthy older adults. Most research has focused on aerobic training (AT). Therefore, investigators aim to assess the individual effects of AT and resistance training (RT), as well as the interaction effect of combining the two types of exercise training, on cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for older adults in Metro Vancouver with mild cognitive impairment, who have a MMSE score of 22 or higher and MoCA score below 26. They should be able to walk, follow the trial's plan, and not be on certain dementia medications. People already doing moderate exercise, diagnosed with dementia other than AD or VCI, at high cardiac risk during exercise, or on cognition-impairing drugs can't join.Inclusion Criteria
Community-dwelling in Metro Vancouver
Have subjective memory complaints with an onset within the last 5 years, as determined by interview and corroborated by an informant
My cognitive test score is below 26 out of 30.
+7 more
Exclusion Criteria
Planning to participate, or already enrolled in, a concurrent clinical drug or exercise trial
I have nerve damage or severe joint issues that affect my ability to move.
I have been diagnosed with a type of dementia.
+5 more
Participant Groups
The study tests how different types of exercises affect brain function in those with mild cognitive impairment. It compares aerobic training (like running), resistance training (like lifting weights), and balance/tone training to see which is best for improving memory and thinking skills.
4Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Active Control
Group I: Resistance Training (RT)Experimental Treatment2 Interventions
The RT program will be a four-times-per week program. Twice a week will be resistance training in which a pressurized air system and free weights will be used to provide the training stimulus. Other key strength exercises (with free weights) will include mini-squats, mini-lunges, and lunge walks. The intensity of the training stimulus will initially be at 50% to 60% of 1 repetition maximum (RM) as determined at week two, and progress to 75% to 85% of 1-RM at a work level of 6 to 8 repetitions (2 sets) by week four. The training stimulus will be increased using the 7 RM method, when 2 sets of 6-8 repetitions are completed with proper form. The other two days per week are a balance and tone program consisting of stretching exercises, basic core-strength/kegal exercises, and relaxation techniques. Other than bodyweight, no additional loading (e.g., hand weights, resistance bands, etc.) will be applied to any of the exercises.
Group II: Aerobic Training and Resistance Training (A&RT)Experimental Treatment2 Interventions
The A\&RT program will be a four-times-per week program. Twice a week will be aerobic training consisting of outdoor walks with certified fitness instructors. The outdoor walking program will start participants out working at 45% of their heart rate reserve, and work up to 70% of the heart rate reserve. The other two days a week will be resistance training in which a pressurized air system and free weights will be used to provide the training stimulus. Other key strength exercises (with free weights) will include mini-squats, mini-lunges, and lunge walks. The intensity of the training stimulus will initially be at 50% to 60% of 1 repetition maximum (RM) as determined at week two, and progress to 75% to 85% of 1-RM at a work level of 6 to 8 repetitions (2 sets) by week four. The training stimulus will be increased using the 7 RM method, when 2 sets of 6-8 repetitions are completed with proper form.
Group III: Aerobic Training (AT)Experimental Treatment2 Interventions
The AT program will be a four-times-per week program. Twice a week will be aerobic training consisting of outdoor walks with certified fitness instructors. The outdoor walking program will start participants out working at 45% of their heart rate reserve, and work up to 70% of the heart rate reserve. The other two days per week are a balance and tone program consisting of stretching exercises, basic core-strength/kegal exercises, and relaxation techniques. Other than bodyweight, no additional loading (e.g., hand weights, resistance bands, etc.) will be applied to any of the exercises.
Group IV: Balance and Tone Program (CON)Active Control1 Intervention
The CON program will be a four-times-per week program. The CON group will consist of stretching exercises, basic core-strength/kegal exercises, and relaxation techniques. Other than bodyweight, no additional loading (e.g., hand weights, resistance bands, etc.) will be applied to any of the exercises.
Find a Clinic Near You
Research Locations NearbySelect from list below to view details:
University of British ColumbiaVancouver, Canada
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Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of British ColumbiaLead Sponsor