Simple tongue workouts could cut pneumonia risk in dementia patients

NCT ID NCT03682081

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: University of Wisconsin, Madison Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 16, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tested whether tongue-strengthening exercises using a special device could improve swallowing in people with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. 76 participants with mild to moderate dementia did exercises over 8 weeks. The goal was to reduce food or liquid going into the lungs, which can cause pneumonia. Researchers measured changes in swallowing safety using video X-rays.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Iowa Oral Performance Instrument (IOPI) device for tongue strengthening exercises
What this could lead to: If successful, this could lead to a simple, non-drug therapy to help people with dementia swallow more safely and lower their risk of pneumonia.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed study (76 participants) without a later phase, so results may not apply broadly. The exercises require active participation, which may be challenging for some with advanced dementia.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Alzheimer disease Deglutition Disorders dementia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ALZHEIMER DISEASE DEMENTIA DYSPHAGIA

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, Wisconsin, 53705, United States

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