RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT03799991

Vestibular Therapy in Alzheimer's Disease

Sponsor

Johns Hopkins University

Enrollment

100 participants

Start Date

Aug 22, 2022

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Alzheimer Disease Vestibular Diseases Vestibular Disorder

Summary

Nearly 2 out of 3 patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) experience problems with balance and mobility, which places such patients at increased risk of falling. The vestibular (inner ear balance) system plays an important role in balance stability, and vestibular therapy (VT) is well-known to improve balance function in healthy older adults. In this study, the investigators will conduct a first-in-kind randomized clinical trial to evaluate whether vestibular therapy improves reduces falls in patients with AD, in whom this treatment has never been studied.

Eligibility

Min Age: 60 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This study is testing whether a specialized form of physical therapy targeting the balance and vestibular (inner ear) system can improve balance, walking, and brain function in people with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease who also have inner ear problems affecting their sense of balance. **You may be eligible if...** - You are 60 years or older - You have mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease - You have been found to have reduced vestibular (inner ear balance) function in both ears - You are able to participate in balance and neurological testing **You may NOT be eligible if...** - Your Alzheimer's is severe (CDR score above 2) - You do not have measurable vestibular (inner ear) dysfunction - You have other neurological conditions that would interfere with the therapy - You are physically unable to participate in vestibular rehabilitation exercises Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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Interventions

BEHAVIORALVestibular physical therapy

Vestibular therapy is a set of exercises delivered by a physical therapist involving head movements. The therapy is delivered over a course of 8 weeks.

BEHAVIORALActive control

Strength and flexibility exercises that do not involve head movements.