Exercise With and Without Cognitive Training
Sponsored by VA Office of Research and Development
About this study
This proposal aims to conduct a 10-week randomized controlled trial comparing walking and resistance training with and without computerized cognitive training in older Veterans with Multiple Sclerosis, followed by 12 months of fall tracking with sensors and fall calendars. The primary objectives of this proposed CDA2 are to provide critical preliminary data on 1) the feasibility of conducting a 10-week RCT, 2) preliminary treatment effects on gait, cognition, and falls, and 3) neuroinflammatory biomarkers. Dr. Katherine Hsieh will receive hands-on training in the design and conduct of clinical trials (Dr. Hackney), mechanisms underlying physical activity, cognitive rehabilitation, and falls (Drs. Twamley, Hackney, \& Kesar), fall detection technology (Prof. Sanford), and clinical problems faced by MS participants (Dr. Backus) to achieve her long-term career goal of becoming an independent falls prevention investigator.
Significance to VA: A key aim of this proposal is to equip Dr. Katherine Hsieh with the expertise to become an independent VA investigator leading fall prevention trials for older Veterans with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). MS is a chronic, neurodegenerative disease affecting 55,00-70,000 Veterans. Over 28,000 MS cases are reported annually to the VA, and within the Paralyzed Veterans of America, 1 in 4 members have MS. Gait and cognitive impairments are the two of the most common MS symptoms and two of the most important predictors of falls, which lead to fractures, disability, and even death. Adults 55 years and older are the largest group of people living with MS, and the combination of MS symptoms and aging puts older MS Veterans at a high risk of falls. Preventing falls in older Veterans w…
Where this study is enrolling
- I'm interested
Atlanta VA Medical and Rehab Center, Decatur, GA
Decatur, Georgia
Who can participate
Inclusion criteria
- ✓US Veteran
- ✓Diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis
- ✓Relapse free in the last 30 days
- ✓Capable of standing unaided for at least 1 minute
- ✓Expanded Disability Status Scale \<6.5
- ✓Ability to speak and understand English
Exclusion criteria
- ✕Any neurological disorder other than MS
- ✕Modified Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status \<20
- ✕Current participation in an exercise or cognitive rehabilitation study
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Trial data sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov.