Study of Home-Based Walking Exercise to Improve Memory and Brain Function in Older Adults with Chronic Kidney Disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to determine whether six months of a home-based walking program can improve memory, brain structure, and brain function compared to health education in older adults who have chronic kidney disease and mild cognitive impairment. The study focuses on understanding how exercise impacts executive function and neuroplasticity in this population. Participants are randomly assigned to either a walking exercise program or a health education group for six months. Those in the walking group start with supervised sessions once a week and regular home walking, gradually increasing exercise frequency and intensity. They receive a Fitbit tracker and phone coaching throughout. The health education group receives similar contact time with sessions on health topics and stretching exercises, along with Fitbit monitoring. Participants undergo tests before and after the six months, including heart health, physical function, memory, and brain imaging using MRI. Researchers measure changes in executive function, processing speed, attention, memory, and brain connectivity. The study involves ongoing monitoring through questionnaires, fitness trackers, and coaching calls to assess outcomes and safety throughout the trial duration.

Accelerated Age-related Cognitive Decline: Impact of Exercise on Executive Function and Neuroplasticity