Exercise Trial for Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) occurs in 1 in 7 individuals over 65, and 1 in 2 individuals over 85. While the progression of AD is extremely variable, it is generally established that AD subjects will move from having compromised function in socail and work settings, to requiring institutionalization and/or intensive management within 10 years of initial clinical diagnosis. A randomized controlled piot trial is needed to provide information regarding exercies effects on individuals with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. Exercise Trial for Alzheimer's Disease (EXTRA) is a pilot randomized controlled trial designed to compare a moderate-intesity physical activity program to a healthy lifestyle health education program in 30 older adults with mild to moderate Alzheimer's Disease. These individuals will be followed for 1 year. This trial will provide pilot evidence regarding whether physical activity is effective and practical for individuals with AD. The effects of an exercise intervention on halting, slowing, or reversing the cognitive effects of AD will be assessed with pilot data and potentially provide support for a larger trial in the future.