Treadmill training as an augmentation treatment for Alzheimer's disease: a pilot randomized controlled study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Gerontology
• Exercise Science

Background:

• Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline and impaired functional capacity.
• Current treatments for AD offer limited efficacy in halting or reversing disease progression.
• Non-pharmacological interventions are being explored to supplement existing therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a structured aerobic exercise program on cognitive function and functional capacity in individuals with mild Alzheimer's disease.
• To determine if treadmill exercise can ameliorate cognitive deficits and improve daily functioning in AD patients.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 20 elderly patients with mild Alzheimer's disease (NINCDS-ADRDA/CDR1).
• Participants were assigned to either an exercise group (EG) or a control group (GC).
• The EG engaged in moderate-intensity treadmill exercise (30 minutes, twice weekly, 60% VO₂max) for 16 weeks, with cognitive function assessed via CAMCOG and other specific instruments.

Main Results:

• The exercise group demonstrated significant improvements in cognitive function (CAMCOG scores) compared to the control group, which showed a decline.
• Patients in the exercise group exhibited a significant enhancement in functional capacity relative to the control group.
• Effect size analysis indicated a positive response to physical exercise across all measured dependent variables.

Conclusions:

• Treadmill walking can be recommended as an effective adjunctive therapy for patients diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
• Regular aerobic exercise may play a crucial role in managing cognitive and functional decline associated with Alzheimer's disease.