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BMC Geriatrics
Published in: BMC Geriatrics 1/2011

Open Access 01-12-2011 | Study protocol

Study of Mental Activity and Regular Training (SMART) in at risk individuals: A randomised double blind, sham controlled, longitudinal trial

Authors: Nicola J Gates, Michael Valenzuela, Perminder S Sachdev, Nalin A Singh, Bernhard T Baune, Henry Brodaty, Chao Suo, Nidhi Jain, Guy C Wilson, Yi Wang, Michael K Baker, Dominique Williamson, Nasim Foroughi, Maria A Fiatarone Singh

Published in: BMC Geriatrics | Issue 1/2011

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Abstract

Background

The extent to which mental and physical exercise may slow cognitive decline in adults with early signs of cognitive impairment is unknown. This article provides the rationale and methodology of the first trial to investigate the isolated and combined effects of cognitive training (CT) and progressive resistance training (PRT) on general cognitive function and functional independence in older adults with early cognitive impairment: Study of Mental and Regular Training (SMART). Our secondary aim is to quantify the differential adaptations to these interventions in terms of brain morphology and function, cardiovascular and metabolic function, exercise capacity, psychological state and body composition, to identify the potential mechanisms of benefit and broader health status effects.

Methods

SMART is a double-blind randomized, double sham-controlled trial. One hundred and thirty-two community-dwelling volunteers will be recruited. Primary inclusion criteria are: at risk for cognitive decline as defined by neuropsychology assessment, low physical activity levels, stable disease, and age over 55 years. The two active interventions are computerized CT and whole body, high intensity PRT. The two sham interventions are educational videos and seated calisthenics. Participants are randomized into 1 of 4 supervised training groups (2 d/wk × 6 mo) in a fully factorial design. Primary outcomes measured at baseline, 6, and 18 months are the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale (ADAS-Cog), neuropsychological test scores, and Bayer Informant Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (B-IADLs). Secondary outcomes are psychological well-being, quality of life, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal function, body composition, insulin resistance, systemic inflammation and anabolic/neurotrophic hormones, and brain morphology and function via Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Spectroscopy (fMRS).

Discussion

SMART will provide a novel evaluation of the immediate and long term benefits of CT, PRT, and combined CT and PRT on global cognitive function and brain morphology, as well as potential underlying mechanisms of adaptation in older adults at risk of further cognitive decline.

Trial Registration

Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trials Register (ANZCTR): ANZCTRN126080004​89392
Appendix
Available only for authorised users
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Metadata
Title
Study of Mental Activity and Regular Training (SMART) in at risk individuals: A randomised double blind, sham controlled, longitudinal trial
Authors
Nicola J Gates
Michael Valenzuela
Perminder S Sachdev
Nalin A Singh
Bernhard T Baune
Henry Brodaty
Chao Suo
Nidhi Jain
Guy C Wilson
Yi Wang
Michael K Baker
Dominique Williamson
Nasim Foroughi
Maria A Fiatarone Singh
Publication date
01-12-2011
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Geriatrics / Issue 1/2011
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2318
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2318-11-19

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