Tai chi for the brain: can a mindful exercise program slow memory loss?

NCT ID NCT04070703

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Oregon Research Institute Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 30, 2026 · Last updated Jul 31, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial tests whether a specially designed tai ji quan program, called Tai Ji Quan: Moving to Maintain Brain Health, can slow cognitive decline in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. Participants will be randomly assigned to the tai ji quan program or a control exercise group for 24 weeks. The study measures changes in global cognitive function and the ability to perform tasks while walking, aiming to see if this mind-body exercise can protect brain health.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: a cognitively enhanced tai ji quan program called Tai Ji Quan: Moving to Maintain Brain Health
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a non-drug way to slow memory loss and maintain independence in older adults at risk for dementia.
What could go wrong: This is a mid-stage trial with 318 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The benefit may be small or not last beyond the 6-month study period.

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

As listed by the trial registrant

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

MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT

Contacts and locations

Locations

Oregon Research Institute

Eugene, Oregon, 97403, United States

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.