NCT07171255 · Creighton University
Improving Exercise Adherence With App Technology for At-Risk Adults Living in Rural Kansas and Nebraska
(RemoteEx+)
What this study is about
Alzheimer's disease and related dementias are a public health crisis impacting individuals across the world. In the United States, adults living in rural areas face an elevated risk for cognitive impairment mainly due to disparities in care, higher sedentary behavior, and reduced education. This project proposes to assess the impact of a remotely delivered exercise program (i.e.
View original scientific description
Alzheimer's disease and related dementias are a public health crisis impacting individuals across the world. In the United States, adults living in rural areas face an elevated risk for cognitive impairment mainly due to disparities in care, higher sedentary behavior, and reduced education. This project proposes to assess the impact of a remotely delivered exercise program (i.e., RemoteEx+) through a smartphone application. The app is programmed by our team and provides video demonstrations of exercises, workout regimes, motivational messaging, and weekly ADRD risk reduction education. The project aims to assess with a pre/post design the following aims: * Aim 1. Assess the RemoteEx+ intervention exercise adherence, efficacy, enjoyment, and quality of life. We hypothesize that rural adults will report high exercise adherence (80% of session adherence), efficacy (\>50% on Self Efficacy for Exercise), and enjoyment (\>5.0 on Intrinsic Motivation Inventory - Interest / Enjoyment Subscale) and that these variables will be positively correlated with quality of life scores (36-Item Short Form Health Survey \[SF-36\]) * Aim 2. Determine the impact of a technology-driven exercise program on blood pressure and functional mobility associated with dementia risk. We hypothesize that the exercise program will result in improvements in blood pressure and functional mobility (2-minute step test and 30-second chair rise test) and that participants with high exercise adherence will see the greatest improvements in biomarkers associated with reduced dementia risk. * Aim 3. Reduce health disparities among rural-dwelling Nebraska and Kansas residents. We hypothesize that RemoteEx+ will reduce barriers to exercise (Barriers to Being Active Quiz and improve knowledge surrounding dementia and modifiable risk factors (Dementia Knowledge Assessment Tool - Version 2 \[DKAT2\]) that will result in fewer lifestyle-related health disparities for the communities involved in this study. The results from this project will inform whether RemoteEx+ has an impact on the stated outcomes above for adults living in rural areas.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age 40-85 years
- Characterized as underactive by the Telephone Assessment of Physical Activity (TAPA)50
- Self-reported proficiency in English
- Own a smartphone and willing to download an application
- Primary care provider clearance to participate for those who do not pass the PAR-Q+51
- Live in a rural area (Rural-Urban Commuting Area \[RUCA\] Codes) 52
Exclusion criteria
- Contraindications to high-intensity exercise
- Cognitive impairment (\<19 on the Telephone Montreal Cognitive Assessment \[MoCA\])
- Neurodegenerative or acute neurological diagnoses (e.g., Parkinson's disease, stroke, traumatic brain injury)
- Orthopedic surgery or injuries in the last 6 months
Where
- Emporia, Kansas
- Omaha, Nebraska
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Sep 12, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations