Improving Neurological Health in Aging Via Neuroplasticity-Based Computerized Exercise: Protocol for a Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Gerontology
• Cognitive Psychology

Background:

• Understanding how computerized brain training improves cognitive and functional abilities in aging populations is limited.
• The INHANCE trial protocol is described, focusing on healthy older adults to assess brain training's impact on cholinergic signaling.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate if two computerized training programs alter acetylcholine binding using [18F] fluoroethoxybenzovesamicol ([18F] FEOBV) and positron emission tomography (PET).

Main Methods:

• A phase IIb, double-blind, randomized trial involving 92+ healthy adults aged 65+.
• Participants were assigned to either a neuroplasticity-based brain training program or an active control (computer games).
• Intervention involved 35 hours of training over 10 weeks, with primary outcome being change in [18F] FEOBV binding in the anterior cingulate cortex.

Main Results:

• The trial enrolled 93 participants between July 2021 and December 2023.
• Data analysis is pending completion of the trial in June 2024.
• Publication of results is anticipated in late 2024.

Conclusions:

• There is a significant need for effective, non-pharmaceutical interventions to enhance cognition in older adults.
• This trial aims to offer a neurochemical explanation for the cognitive benefits observed with brain training.