Six-month resistance training trial investigates brain and muscle health in older adults with MCI
Background
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) represents a transitional stage between normal aging and dementia, characterized by noticeable cognitive decline without significant functional impairment. Individuals with MCI face an elevated risk of progressing to Alzheimer's disease or other forms of neurodegeneration. Current pharmacological interventions for MCI are limited, highlighting the urgent need for effective non-pharmacological strategies. Research suggests that physical activity, particularly resistance training, may counteract age-related declines in both muscle mass and cognitive function by influencing neuroinflammation, neurotrophic factors, and cerebral blood flow. This trial aims to explore whether long-term progressive resistance training can mitigate the neurodegenerative and pro-inflammatory processes implicated in MCI progression, thereby preserving cognition, mobility, and overall vitality.
Study Design
This randomized controlled trial is recruiting older adults diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Participants will undergo a 6-month (26-week) supervised intervention. The intervention group will engage in progressive resistance training. The control group will participate in flexibility training of lower limb muscles. Structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI, sMRI), proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS), and blood analyses will be performed at baseline and end of intervention. Cognitive and functional tests will be administered at baseline, 3 months, and at the study's conclusion.
Results
No findings are available as this is a recruiting clinical trial (NCT06948149) with a projected start date of January 1, 2026. Data collection and analysis are pending.
Why It Matters
If successful, this trial could establish progressive resistance training as a crucial non-pharmacological intervention for managing mild cognitive impairment (MCI), potentially delaying its progression to dementia. For individuals with MCI and their caregivers, a validated exercise protocol could offer a tangible strategy to maintain cognitive function, improve physical mobility, and enhance overall quality of life. This research could inform clinical guidelines for exercise prescription in older adults, providing a specific, evidence-based protocol for integrating resistance training into MCI management plans. The findings could also highlight the underlying neurobiological mechanisms by which exercise impacts brain health, potentially revealing novel targets for future therapeutic development. Integrating structured resistance training could become a standard recommendation for MCI patients.
resistance training
mild cognitive impairment
mci
cognition
brain health
muscle health