Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is extremely common in older adults and is associated with cognitive impairment. It is hypothesized that accelerated cognitive decline in CKD results from a vascular dysfunction-induced reduction in the integrity of the brain white matter.
Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the protocol for a study to evaluate whether exercise training provides a cerebroprotective effect by improving cerebrovascular health.
Methods: This is a randomized controlled trial investigating feasibility and effect size.
Results: Participants will be randomized to either a 24-week, home-based, walking program or a usual care group. Participants will undergo evaluation of cognitive function, brain structure via magnetic reasoning imaging, physical function, physical activity, and vascular function. The primary outcome is change in cognitive function.
Discussion: The findings of this study will help determine whether exercise training influences cognitive function during a therapeutic window in the disease process of cognitive impairment in older adults with CKD.
Conclusion: This protocol describes a study to evaluate cognition and brain structure following a home-based exercise program to an at-risk population.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03197038.
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