RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

The Effect of Upper Limb Low-intensity Motor Control Training Program on Cognitive Function in Healthy Older Adults

This study is investigating if a special exercise program, focusing on light arm movements, can help older adults aged 65-85 improve both their physical skills (like coordination) and their thinking abilities (like memory and focus). We want to understand if this training can keep people healthier and mentally sharper as they get older. The study will also check if these exercises are safe and practical to do. Participants will come to Derby Royal Hospital Medical School three days a week for one month to do the training, with some check-ups before, after, and a month later. By taking part, you could help us learn more about healthy ageing.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University of Nottingham

Enrolment target

Start

01 Sep 2023

Estimated completion

31 May 2026

Cognitive Impairment

What is this study about?

This study is designed to explore a new way to help healthy older adults aged 65-85 stay active and mentally sharp. The main idea is to see if a specific type of training, focusing on low-intensity (not too strenuous) movements of the arms, can make a difference. We call this 'upper limb motor control training'. We're particularly interested in two main areas: first, whether these exercises can improve how well your body moves, especially coordination and muscle function; and second, if they can also boost your brain power, such as your memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.

Beyond these main goals, the researchers also want to make sure that this type of training is safe for older adults and easy to introduce into daily life. This study is important because understanding how simple exercises might help both your body and your mind could lead to better ways for people to maintain their health and independence as they get older. It's about finding practical solutions to help you live well.

By taking part, you would be helping us answer key questions like: Can gentle arm exercises really improve how we move and think as we age? This knowledge could benefit many people in the future.

Key takeaways

Looking at gentle arm exercises for older adults.
Aims to improve physical movement and thinking skills.
Participants aged 65-85.
Involves hospital visits 3 times a week for a month, plus assessments.
Helps understand healthy ageing.
Participation is voluntary and you can leave at any time.

Who may be eligible?

To be part of this study, you need to be a healthy person between 65 and 85 years old and be willing to give your permission to take part.

There are some health conditions that would prevent you from joining. These include if you have been diagnosed with memory problems or certain types of mental health conditions. Also, if you have had cancer in the last five years, or have certain long-term health issues like serious heart problems, severe breathing difficulties, or some specific nerve conditions, unfortunately, you won't be able to participate. uncontrolled high blood pressure or diabetes would also exclude you. The research team will ask you about your health in more detail to check if the study is suitable for you.

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.

Are you between 65 and 85 years old?
Are you generally healthy and don't have problems like dementia, severe heart conditions, or cancer in the last 5 years?
Are you willing and able to give your informed consent to take part?
Can you travel to Derby Royal Hospital Medical School for sessions?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, you will first have a screening appointment to check your general health, including an ECG (a heart tracing) and blood pressure check. This is also a good opportunity to ask any questions you have. If you meet the health requirements, you will be randomly placed into one of two groups.

One group will take part in the special arm exercise training. This involves coming to Derby Royal Hospital Medical School three days a week for one month to do the exercises. Everyone will also attend three assessment sessions: one before the training starts, one immediately after the four-week training period, and a follow-up assessment one month later. The total duration of your participation, including assessments and training, would be about two months. If you are in the other group, you won't do the exercises but will still come to the hospital three times a week for a month to take part in helpful discussions about research, and you will also have the three assessment sessions.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study may offer some benefits, such as potentially improving your physical coordination and thinking abilities, although this is what the study is trying to find out. You would also be contributing valuable information that could help many older adults in the future. As for risks, the exercises are low-intensity, so serious injury is unlikely, but as with any physical activity, there's always a small chance of minor discomfort. All participants will undergo health checks to ensure the study is safe for them. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

The University of Nottingham Medical School
Verified postcode
Derby, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What kind of exercises will I be doing?

You'll be doing gentle, low-intensity arm movements, designed to improve coordination and control.

How long will the study last for me?

Including all assessments and training, your involvement will be for about two months.

Do I have to do exercises every day?

If you're in the exercise group, you'll come to the hospital three days a week for one month for the training.

What if I change my mind about participating?

You can withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without needing to explain why.

Who will see my personal information?

Your personal information will be kept confidential and used only for research purposes, shared only with authorised study staff.

How to find out more

Bethan E Phillips, Professor

beth.phillips@nottingham.ac.uk 01332 724676 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.