Lifestyle overhaul may shield aging brains from memory loss

NCT ID NCT03688126

Completed Prevention Sponsor: Wake Forest University Health Sciences Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether lifestyle changes—like a healthy diet, physical and mental exercise, and managing health risks—can protect memory and thinking in older adults at risk for Alzheimer's disease. Researchers enrolled 2,000 Americans who were sedentary and had a low-quality diet but no memory problems. Participants were split into two groups: one received tools and support to make their own lifestyle changes, while the other followed a structured program. The goal was to see if these changes could slow or prevent cognitive decline.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Lifestyle intervention (diet, physical and cognitive exercise, social activity, and cardiometabolic risk management)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could show that lifestyle changes can help prevent memory loss and cognitive decline in older Americans at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
What could go wrong: This is a completed study, but results may not apply to everyone. Lifestyle changes can be hard to maintain, and the effect may be modest or not work for all individuals.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Cognitive Dysfunction dementia Alzheimer disease prevention target

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ALZHEIMER DISEASE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Chicagoland--Advocate Aurora Health

Downers Grove, Illinois, 60068, United States
Chicagoland--Rush

Chicago, Illinois, 60304, United States
Houston

Houston, Texas, 77030, United States
New England--Rhode Island

Providence, Rhode Island, 02906, United States
North Carolina

Winston-Salem, North Carolina, 27157, United States
Northern California

Sacramento, California, 95616, United States

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