Preventing Cognitive Decline

The study aims to understand the mechanisms and training effects of evidence-based body-mind training on improving cognitive performance and preventing cognitive decline.

Subjective cognitive decline (SCD), the self-reported perception of memory or cognitive problems, is a risk factor for the cognitive decline and development of Alzheimer's (AD) and often happens in midlife. Recently, few mind-body interventions have suggested promising effects in preventing cognitive decline. However, these interventions often require longer training time (months to years) to achieve modest benefits, making them less optimal for rapidly learning and achieving desirable outcomes. One mechanism for cognitive decline and AD may involve deficits in self-control networks, and autonomic nervous system (ANS) and these deficits can be ameliorated through body-mind interventions. This study aims to investigate the modulation effects of a novel body-mind intervention on SCD using an evidence-based preventive intervention - integrative body-mind training (IBMT).

An evidence-based preventive intervention - integrative body-mind training (IBMT) has shown positive effects in reducing stress, and improving self-control and brain plasticity related to cognitive performance. It has bodifulness and mindfulness components.

Health education includes health-related topics - exercise, sleep, stress management, nutrition, lifestyle

IBMT is an effortless mindfulness technique; health education is a class including health-related topics - exercise, sleep, nutrition, lifestyle, stress management

Health education includes health-related topics - exercise, sleep, stress management, nutrition, lifestyle

Changes in the composite measures of cognition such as N-back working memory; the minimum and maximum values (1 and 5); higher scores mean a better outcome.

Changes in the composite measures of cognition such as subjective cognitive decline; the minimum and maximum values (1 and 27); higher scores mean a worse outcome.

Changes in the composite measures of executive function such as emotion regulation questionnaire; the minimum and maximum values (4 and 10); higher scores mean a better outcome. questionnaire

Changes in the composite measures of executive function such as Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire; the minimum and maximum values (8 and 40); higher scores mean a better outcome.

AD-signature cortical connectivity changes such as anterior and posterior cingulate cortex measured by fMRI resting-state imaging

AD-signature cortical white matter changes such as anterior and posterior cingulate cortex measured by fMRI diffusion tensor imaging

AD-signature cortical volume changes such as anterior and posterior cingulate cortex measured by fMRI structural imaging

Inclusion Criteria: Able to read/understand English Normal performance using standardized cognitive tests Self-reported decline in cognitive capacity such as memory loss Eligible for non-invasive fMRI Willing to be randomized Free of any severe psychiatric diagnoses or medication that may affect participation Exclusion Criteria: Medical disorders or medications that affect the central and autonomic nervous system; or a positive pregnancy test result (females) Unable to provide consent or understand study procedures due to mental illness or cognitive limitations Previous meditation experiences Evidence of illicit drug use Participants for blood draws weigh less than 110 lbs Metal or metallic materials in the body such as pacemaker