Trial to investigate creatine and resistance training effects on cognition in older adults with mild cognitive impairment

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) often precedes dementia, lacking effective interventions. Resistance training has shown promise in improving cognition and brain health in older adults. Creatine, a naturally occurring compound whose levels decline with age, is known to enhance muscle mass and bone density when supplemented. Emerging research also suggests potential cognitive and brain health benefits. However, the specific impact of creatine supplementation, both alone and in combination with resistance training, on the aging brain and body, particularly in individuals with known cognitive impairment, remains largely unexplored. This trial aims to address this critical knowledge gap.

This 26-week randomized controlled trial will enroll older adults diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of four groups: creatine supplementation plus resistance training, placebo plus resistance training, creatine supplementation plus active control (balance and tone classes), or placebo plus active control. Participants in the creatine groups will take daily creatine supplementation. Resistance training groups will attend three 60-minute classes per week, targeting major muscle groups with increasing difficulty. Active control groups will attend three 60-minute weekly classes focused on balance, stretching, and range of motion exercises.

This record describes the protocol for a 26-week randomized controlled trial, which is currently "NOT_YET_RECRUITING" participants (NCT07485062). Therefore, no findings or results are available at this time. The study aims to collect information before and after the intervention period to assess the effects of creatine supplementation and/or resistance training on cognition, brain health, and physical function. Specific quantitative outcomes, statistical analyses, and effect sizes will be reported upon trial completion, currently projected for May 2029. The trial is designed to provide robust data on the individual and combined efficacy of these interventions in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.