Physical Exercise And Cognitive Engagement Outcomes for Mild Neurocognitive Disorder

Physical Exercise And Cognitive Engagement Outcomes for Mild Neurocognitive Disorder

Behavioral interventions currently provide the most useful approach to addressing the behavioral and social needs of those with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) due to Alzheimer's or other diseases. This randomized, multisite, 3-arm study will investigate the impact of computerized brain fitness vs yoga vs an active control group (wellness education) on changes in cognitive function, daily functioning and quality of life in persons with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and their partner. In addition, in vivo neuroimaging measures of plasticity during the pre- and post-intervention periods will be measured and compared between the three different treatment groups. These neuroimaging measures of plasticity will be investigated in their relationship to the cognitive outcomes within each group.

For the patients diagnosed with MCI:

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Written informed consent for participation. Patient also needs to sign a legally authorized representative (LAR) addendum should MCI patient become incapacitated
2. A diagnosis of amnestic MCI (single domain or multi-domain)
3. A Clinical Dementia Rating scale score of 0 or 0.5
4. At least 50.
5. Either not taking or stable on nootropic(s) and/or pain medication for at least 3 months.
6. Fluent in English.
7. A score of at least 25 on the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status for Memory.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. MRI contraindications (e.g., ferrous metal in the body, claustrophobia, pregnancy)
2. Physical impairments, language comprehension deficits, or significant hearing disturbances that would limit ability to perform tasks or participation in the intervention.

For the care partners:

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Written informed consent for participation.
2. At least 21 years of age.
3. A score of at least 32 on the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status for Memory.
4. Partner has at least twice-weekly contact with the participant.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Physical impairments, language comprehension deficits, or significant hearing disturbances that would limit ability to perform tasks or participation in the intervention.