High-Intensity + Home Exercise for Cognitive Impairment
(HEALTH-COG Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to explore how different exercise routines can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's and related dementias in people living with HIV. Participants will engage in either high-intensity interval training (short bursts of hard exercise mixed with easier exercise) or continuous moderate exercise. The goal is to understand how these exercises can improve cognitive health and find ways to encourage long-term exercise habits. The trial seeks individuals with HIV who don't exercise often, feel fatigued, and are willing to commit to a supervised exercise program. As an unphased study, this trial offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research on exercise and cognitive health.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, you must be on a stable ART regimen for at least 12 months, and any hormone therapy must be stable for more than 3 months.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is safe and beneficial for the brain. Studies have found that HIIT can enhance thinking and memory skills in older adults and is safe for individuals with various health conditions. Importantly, these studies did not report any serious side effects.
Continuous moderate exercise (CME) is also manageable. Research suggests that CME can slightly enhance brain function over time. Participants in studies typically perform these exercises without major issues, making it a safe option.
Both HIIT and CME are supported by research indicating they are safe and can improve brain health. Participants can feel confident about the safety of these exercise options.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the High-Intensity + Home Exercise approach for cognitive impairment because it introduces a novel use of exercise intensity to potentially improve cognitive function. Unlike standard treatments for cognitive impairment, which typically involve medications or cognitive therapies, this method uses physical exercise as a therapeutic tool. The High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) arm offers a unique blend of high and moderate-intensity exercise, which could enhance brain health through increased blood flow and neuroplasticity. Meanwhile, the Continuous Moderate Exercise (CME) provides a consistent, sustainable physical activity option that might help maintain cognitive abilities. This trial also explores the role of home-based exercise, supported by coaching text messages, making it accessible and potentially more engaging for participants.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for cognitive impairment in people with HIV?
Research has shown that high-intensity interval training (HIIT), which participants in this trial may receive, can boost brain function. Studies indicate that HIIT improves memory and thinking skills, especially when performed for 4 to 16 weeks at high effort levels. This type of exercise appears more beneficial for brain health than less intense workouts.
Continuous moderate exercise (CME) is another treatment option in this trial. It helps maintain mental sharpness and may reduce the risk of memory issues. Regular aerobic activities, such as walking, have enhanced brain health and improved memory in older adults. Both HIIT and CME hold promise for individuals with cognitive concerns.23456Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for older individuals living with HIV who have low viral loads, are on stable antiretroviral therapy, experience fatigue, and lead a sedentary lifestyle. They must be willing to exercise regularly and able to receive text messages. Exclusions include severe health conditions like heart failure, uncontrolled hypertension or diabetes, recent major surgery or injury, and certain medication uses.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo 4 months of supervised high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or continuous moderate exercise (CME)
Text-messaging intervention
Participants receive a 3-month text-messaging intervention to improve physical activity adherence
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for cognitive functioning and psychological mechanisms of adherence
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Phase 1 Gym Exercise CME
- Phase 1 Gym Exercise HIIT
- Phase 2 Home Exercise Coaching Text Messages
- Phase 2 Home Exercise Control Text Messages
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Lead Sponsor
University of Colorado, Denver
Collaborator
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Collaborator
University of Washington
Collaborator