Effects and Mechanism of the Sequential Combination of Exercise and Cognitive Training in Stroke Patients

The Effects and Mechanism of the Sequential Combination of Exercise and Cognitive Training on Cognitive Function in Stroke Patients With Cognitive Decline: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The purpose of this study is to determine the treatment effects of sequential combination of aerobic exercise and cognitive training on cognitive function, physiological markers, daily function, physical function, social participation and quality of life in stroke patients with cognitive decline.

Cognitive decline after stroke is a common sequela and is highly associated with functional disability. Empirical evidence shows that exercise combined cognitive training may induce neuroplastic changes that modulate cognitive function. However, evidence about the effects of combined exercise-cognitive trainings on physiological biomarkers, cognitive and physical functions in stroke patients with cognitive decline is still less. The present study aim to investigate the effects of sequential combination of exercise-cognitive trainings on cognitive, physical, and daily function. In addition, the physiological mechanism of the combination training on cognitive function by several biomarkers including the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), antioxidative marker, HbA1c, and plasma lipid level will be investigated. This study is a single-blind randomized controlled trial. Participants will be randomly assigned to SEQ group in which sequentially perform physical exercise and cognitive training or to CI group of control intervention.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke occurring at least 6 months prior to enrollment
2. MMSE score ≥ 19,MoCA<26,able to follow the study instruction
3. Self- or informant-reported memory or cognitive complaints or CDR scale ≤ 0.5
4. Adequate cardiopulmonary function to perform aerobic exercise
5. Able to walk with or without assistive devices

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Unstable medical history (e.g., recent myocardial infarction) that might limit participation
2. Concomitant with other neurological disorders (e.g., Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis)
3. Current participation in another interventional trial