What is this study trying to find out about cognitive function in older adults?

This study is investigating whether breathing exercises combined with balance training can affect cognitive function in adults aged 65 and older. Researchers want to understand if different breathing techniques have distinct effects on thinking skills. The trial is sponsored by Istanbul University - Cerrahpasa and aims to improve knowledge about healthy aging.

Who may be eligible for this cognition and balance clinical trial?

Adults aged 65 years or older who can walk independently and are suitable for light to moderate exercise may be eligible. Participants should also be willing to attend twice-weekly sessions for 8 weeks. People who had recent surgery, neurological disorders affecting mobility, or are in other rehab programs may be excluded. Please review eligibility criteria for more details.

Is there any cost to participate in this cognition and balance clinical trial?

Study-related care, including the study exercises and all trial visits, is provided at no cost. Personal expenses like travel may vary and are not guaranteed to be covered. Participants can expect to attend supervised exercise sessions twice a week for 8 weeks.

Actively Recruiting

Phase Not Applicable

Age: 65Years +

All Genders

Healthy Volunteers

ID07505914

Study of Breathing Exercises Added to Balance Training to Improve Thinking and Function in Adults 65 and Older

Led by Istanbul University - Cerrahpasa · Updated on 2026-04-01

Participants Needed

Research Sites

N/A

Total Duration

AI-Summary

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how adding breathing exercises to balance training affects thinking skills in adults aged 65 and older. The trial aims to find out if breathing exercises influence cognitive function and whether different breathing techniques have different effects. This interventional study involves testing two breathing protocols to evaluate their impact on cognition. Participants will join an 8-week program where they attend sessions twice a week. Each session includes 30 minutes of balance exercises designed to improve stability and reduce fall risk, supervised by a physical therapist. After that, participants perform 15 minutes of breathing exercises, either inspiratory muscle training using a special device or a breathing exercise program focusing on techniques like diaphragmatic and pursed-lip breathing. Throughout the study, cognition will be assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment MoCA before and after the intervention period. Lung function and respiratory muscle strength will also be monitored through spirometry and maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressure tests. Participants will be supported during sessions and observed for changes in cognitive and functional outcomes over the 8 weeks of active intervention.

CONDITIONS

Brief Title

Effects of Breathing Exercises on Cognition in Older Adults

Who Can Participate

Age: 65Years +

All Genders

Healthy Volunteers

Eligibility Criteria

You may qualify if you...

Adults aged 65 years and older
Able to walk independently
Suitable for light to moderate physical activity
Willing and able to attend 2 sessions per week for 8 weeks

You will not qualify if you...

Underwent surgery within the last 6 months
Currently participating in another structured rehabilitation program
Neurological disorders that significantly restrict mobility (e.g., Parkinson's disease, stroke)

Your Study Journey

Screening

Duration - 2 to 4 weeks

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.

1 visit (in-person)

Treatment

Duration - 8 weeks

Participants engage in balance training combined with either inspiratory muscle training or breathing exercises to improve cognitive and functional outcomes.

2 sessions per week for 8 weeks