Actively Recruiting
Promoting Physical Activity to Improve Cognitive Function in Older Adults Undergoing Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation
Led by University of Nebraska · Updated on 2025-07-23
88
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
N/A
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Older adults undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) for blood cancers face a high risk of cognitive decline, which affects memory and thinking, disrupting daily life and quality of life. This research studies how physical activity may improve cognitive function in this vulnerable group, focusing on adults 55 years and older. The study also investigates the role of Alzheimer's disease-related brain changes and inflammation in cancer-related cognitive issues during and after HCT. The study adapts an established physical activity program called CHAMPS-II to fit the needs of older adults undergoing HCT. Participants will engage in a tailored program that includes supervised and unsupervised exercise sessions, counseling to overcome barriers, and telephone support. Walking is the main aerobic activity, supplemented with flexibility, strength, and balance exercises. Participants will receive an exercise kit with materials and tools to support the program. The study involves interviews with patients, their care-partners, and HCT staff to gather feedback on the program and includes a randomized trial comparing immediate versus delayed start of the physical activity intervention. Participants will be assessed over 12 weeks for changes in executive function and working memory using specific cognitive tests. The study will also measure overall cognitive function and subjective memory changes. Researchers will monitor adherence, collect feedback through interviews, and evaluate the program's feasibility and impact on cognitive health. This approach aims to understand how physical activity may help improve thinking skills and quality of life in older adults receiving HCT.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Improving Cognitive Function in Older Adults Undergoing Stem Cell Transplant
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Age 60 years and older (Arm 1) or 55 years and older (Arms 2 and 3)
- Diagnosis of a hematological malignancy such as leukemia, lymphoma, or multiple myeloma
- Received autologous or allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation within the prior 3-6 months (Arm 1) or planned to receive HCT (Arms 2 and 3)
- Able to walk 4 meters with or without assistance (Arms 2 and 3)
- Able to speak and read English
- Provided written informed consent
- Care-partners and transplant team members aged 19 years and older who can speak and read English (for interviews and support)
You will not qualify if you...
- Development of chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or other safety concerns during physical performance tests
- Not cleared to participate in exercise by a physician
- History of recent myocardial infarction (past 3 months), unstable angina, serious arrhythmias, 3rd degree heart block, acute congestive heart failure with low ejection fraction, or significant aortic stenosis without cardiologist clearance
- Recent hip fracture, hip or knee replacement, or spinal surgery within past 3 months without surgeon clearance
- Medical, psychiatric, or behavioral factors interfering with participation or ability to follow the intervention
- For some participants, history of brain abnormalities, major stroke, multiple sclerosis, or severe psychiatric symptoms may exclude participation if they affect study outcomes (Arm 3)
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
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Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - Up to 12 weeks
Participants engage in the CHAMPS-II physical activity program adapted for older adults undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation. This includes supervised and unsupervised exercise sessions, counseling to address barriers and goals, and telephone support to promote physical activity during the transplant process.
Weekly visits and telephone support during the intervention period
Duration - Up to 12 weeks after treatment
Participants are monitored for changes in cognitive function and physical activity outcomes after completing the intervention.
1 to 2 follow-up visits depending on participant progress
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
University of Nebraska Medical Center
Omaha, Nebraska, United States, 68198
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
M
Marcia M Free, BSN
T
Thuy Koll, MD
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
SINGLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
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