Impact of Combined Behavioral Interventions on Cognitive Outcomes in MCI

Impact of Combined Behavioral Interventions on Cognitive Outcomes in MCI

Vast evidence supports use of physical exercise and cognitive stimulation for lowering risk for cognitive decline and dementia, with combinations of non-pharmacological interventions providing greatest promise for impacting cognitive aging. This, paired with limited cognitive benefits from pharmacological interventions in dementia, has shifted focus to non-pharmacological interventions administered earlier in the disease course. This application, therefore, proposes a randomized controlled trial (RCT; 12-week active intervention, 3- and 6-month follow-up) comparing 3 conditions: walking program (guided progressive increases in weekly step counts), computer-based cognitive training program (Brain HQ, Posit Science), and combination of the exercise and cognitive program, on cognitive, functional, and diagnostic outcomes in 60 sedentary, community-dwelling adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Inclusion Criteria:

• MCI diagnosis (can be self referral, will determine eligibility at baseline)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Dementia diagnosis
• Head trauma
• Neuro/psychiatric disorders
• Current substance dependence
• Sensory/mobility deficits
• No more than 1 hour of purposeful, aerobic activity/week
• Currently engaging in any other brain-stimulating computer program (No more than 1 hour a week)