Trialling the Active Brains programme to reduce cognitive impairment in older age groups
As we get older, staying mentally sharp becomes a key priority. Researchers at the University of Southampton have created an online programme called 'Active Brains' to support older adults. The website shares easy ways to move more, eat healthily, and practice brain training games. This five-year study aims to find out if using the website helps protect memory and everyday thinking skills. It is open to people aged 60 to 85 who have internet access and do not have dementia. Participants are placed by chance into one of three groups: their usual GP care, the Active Brains website, or the website with phone and email support. Everyone fills in short online surveys once a year to track their progress. There are no drugs or hospital visits involved, and taking part could help scientists find new ways to help people stay independent for longer.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Memory and thinking skills can naturally change as we grow older. For some people, these changes can make daily tasks harder and may sometimes lead to conditions such as dementia. Because there is currently no simple cure, finding practical ways to protect brain health early on is essential. Scientists believe that simple lifestyle changes—like keeping mentally active, eating nutritious meals, and moving your body—can make a big difference.
To help with this, researchers in the UK have developed 'Active Brains'. This is an easy-to-use website that offers brain training games, sensible eating advice, and gentle tips for staying physically active. The study aims to see whether using this website actually helps people keep their memory and reasoning skills sharp over time, compared to standard health advice alone.
By testing the programme over five years, the research team hope to see whether it lowers the number of people who develop dementia. If the trial shows that Active Brains works well, the team plans to make the website freely available across the NHS. This could give millions of older adults a helpful, accessible tool to support their wellbeing right from home.
Key takeaways
- Tests whether an online lifestyle and brain training website can protect memory in adults aged 60 to 85.
- Takes place entirely online from home, with no hospital visits or medications required.
- Participants are placed into one of three groups, with some receiving website access and support.
- Requires completing a 30-minute online questionnaire once each year for five years.
- Completely voluntary with the freedom to leave at any time.
Who may be eligible?
This study is open to men and women aged between 60 and 85 who are registered with a participating UK doctor's surgery. You must be able and willing to use the internet at home. The researchers are welcoming both people who feel their memory is working well, as well as those who are noticing mild difficulties with thinking or remembering.
You cannot join the study if you already have a diagnosis of dementia, or if you already do a very high amount of vigorous exercise each week.
People who are dealing with a severe mental health condition (such as uncontrolled major depression) or those receiving end-of-life palliative care are also not able to take part.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I am between 60 and 85 years of age.
- I have regular access to the internet and can use a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
- I am registered with a participating UK GP surgery.
- I do not have a diagnosis of dementia.
- I do not already do very high levels of intense physical exercise each week.
What does participation involve?
Taking part in this study happens entirely from home, so you do not need to attend hospital appointments. Once you agree to join, a computer will place you at random into one of three groups. You might receive your usual care from your GP, access to the Active Brains website, or access to the website along with support from a trained adviser over the telephone or by email.
If you are given access to the website, you can use the brain games and health advice at your own pace. There are no new medications or medical treatments involved.
The study lasts for five years. Once a year, you will be asked to complete an online questionnaire and some simple thinking tasks. This usually takes about 30 minutes to finish. Researchers will check your answers after one year and again at the end of the five years to see how your brain health is doing.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (22)
- NIHR CRN: North East and North CumbriaCity only-, England
- NIHR CRN: North West CoastCity only-, England
- NIHR CRN: Yorkshire and HumberCity only-, England
- NIHR CRN: Greater ManchesterCity only-, England
- NIHR CRN: East MidlandsCity only-, England
- NIHR CRN: West MidlandsUnverified-, England
- NIHR CRN: West of EnglandUnverified-, England
- NIHR CRN: Thames Valley and South MidlandsUnverified-, England
- NIHR CRN: EasternUnverified-, England
- NIHR CRN: Kent, Surrey and SussexUnverified-, England
- NIHR CRN: WessexUnverified-, England
- NIHR CRN: South West PeninsulaUnverified-, England
Common questions
Do I need to be an expert with computers to take part?
No. The website is designed to be simple and user-friendly, but you do need regular internet access and basic comfort with browsing websites.
Will I have to take any medication?
No. This study does not involve any drugs, injections, or clinical procedures. It focuses entirely on lifestyle guidance and brain games.
What happens if I am placed in the usual care group?
You will continue to see your GP as normal and complete the yearly questionnaires. If the website is proven to work, the team will tell you how you can access it after the study.
Do I have to travel to a clinic or hospital?
No. All questionnaires and website activities are completed at home on your own computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Can I leave the study if I change my mind?
Yes, you can step down from the study at any time without giving a reason, and your regular NHS healthcare will not change.
How to find out more
Rosie Essery
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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