Completed Trials

CORTEX & CORTEX-II

“BeFit Study”

Cognitive Regulation Training and Exercise Trials for Middle-Aged Adults

Funded by the National Heart, Lung, & Blood Institute (R21) and the National Institute on Aging (R01).

Overview

The first efficacy trial (R21) tested whether a multi-modal cognitive training program could enhance subsequent exercise self-regulation among middle-aged adults. The study included two phases:

  • Phase 1: 20 hours of training over 4 weeks (games vs. videos), with pre- and post-testing.
  • Phase 2: A free weekly exercise program at a local fitness facility for 4 months, including gym membership and follow-up testing at 5 months.

The second effectiveness trial (R01) offered a more definitive test of the intervention, using a combination of center-based and home-based delivery and tracking physical activity engagement over 12 months.

Status: Both trials have ended. Published results are forthcoming.

WEST

Wayfinding, Exergaming, & Spatial-Memory Training Study

Funded by the Center on Health, Aging & Disability (CHAD) at the University of Illinois.

Overview

The WEST study evaluated the efficacy of a 10-week exergaming intervention for enhancing physical activity, wayfinding self-efficacy, and spatial memory among middle-aged adults with psychometrically-confirmed cognitive impairment.

Key Findings

  • Ten weeks of iPad-enhanced, moderately intense aerobic exercise improved wayfinding self-efficacy.
  • No between-group differences were found on the behavioral wayfinding task or spatial memory performance at follow-up.
  • Performance on an inhibitory attentional-control task showed significant improvements favoring the experimental group.

Implications

Virtual reality–enhanced aerobic exercise may be a promising method for improving cognitive function and building confidence to navigate real-world environments among individuals at risk for cognitive impairment.

Read the WEST published results

VOICE

Vocal iPad-Corrective Exercise Study

Collaboration with Dr. Aaron Johnson (now at NYU). Funded by CHAD.

Overview

VOICE was an 8-week iPad-based vocal training program designed for independently-living older adults. The study tested training with and without feedback to examine effects on:

  • Vocal functioning
  • Adherence to vocal exercise
  • Program acceptability
  • Psychosocial stress (secondary outcome)

Status: Trial has ended.

Read the VOICE published results

HEAT

“STEAM” Study to Participants

Heat & Aerobic Training for Pre-Hypertensive Middle-Aged Adults

Funded by the UIUC Campus Research Board.

Overview

HEAT examined the combined effects of steam-room heat therapy and aerobic exercise on:

  • Blood flow and blood pressure
  • Psychosocial outcomes such as mindfulness
  • Cognitive functioning

Status: Trial has ended. Published results are forthcoming.

Unfunded Dissertation Studies