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Trials
Published in: Trials 1/2021

Open Access 01-12-2021 | Study protocol

Reshaping the path of vascular cognitive impairment with resistance training: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Authors: Teresa Liu-Ambrose, Elizabeth Dao, Rachel A. Crockett, Cindy K. Barha, Ryan S. Falck, John R. Best, Ging-Yeuk R. Hsiung, Thalia S. Field, Kenneth M. Madden, Walid A. Alkeridy, Narlon C. Boa Sorte Silva, Jennifer C. Davis, Lisanne F. ten Brinke, Stephanie Doherty, Roger C. Tam

Published in: Trials | Issue 1/2021

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Abstract

Background

Subcortical ischemic vascular cognitive impairment (SIVCI) is the most common form of vascular cognitive impairment. Importantly, SIVCI is considered the most treatable form of cognitive impairment in older adults, due to its modifiable risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hypercholesterolemia. Exercise training is a promising intervention to delay the progression of SIVCI, as it actively targets these cardiometabolic risk factors. Despite the demonstrated benefits of resistance training on cognitive function and emerging evidence suggesting resistance training may reduce the progression of white matter hyperintensities (WMHs), research on SIVCI has predominantly focused on the use of aerobic exercise. Thus, the primary aim of this proof-of-concept randomized controlled trial is to investigate the efficacy of a 12-month, twice-weekly progressive resistance training program on cognitive function and WMH progression in adults with SIVCI. We will also assess the efficiency of the intervention.

Methods

Eighty-eight community-dwelling adults, aged > 55 years, with SIVCI from metropolitan Vancouver will be recruited to participate in this study. SIVCI will be determined by the presence of cognitive impairment (Montreal Cognitive Assessment < 26) and cerebral small vessel disease using computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Participants will be randomly allocated to a twice-weekly exercise program of (1) progressive resistance training or (2) balance and tone training (i.e., active control). The primary outcomes are cognitive function measured by the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive-Plus (ADAS-Cog-13 with additional cognitive tests) and WMH progression.

Discussion

The burden of SIVCI is immense, and to our knowledge, this will be the first study to quantify the effect of progressive resistance training on cognitive function and WMH progression among adults with SIVCI. Slowing the rate of cognitive decline and WMH progression could preserve functional independence and quality of life. This could lead to reduced health care costs and avoidance of early institutional care.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02669394. Registered on February 1, 2016
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Reshaping the path of vascular cognitive impairment with resistance training: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors
Teresa Liu-Ambrose
Elizabeth Dao
Rachel A. Crockett
Cindy K. Barha
Ryan S. Falck
John R. Best
Ging-Yeuk R. Hsiung
Thalia S. Field
Kenneth M. Madden
Walid A. Alkeridy
Narlon C. Boa Sorte Silva
Jennifer C. Davis
Lisanne F. ten Brinke
Stephanie Doherty
Roger C. Tam
Publication date
01-12-2021
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Trials / Issue 1/2021
Electronic ISSN: 1745-6215
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-021-05156-1

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