Reducing sedentary behaviour and cognitive function in older people with Mild Cognitive Impairment: Results of a randomized feasibility study

Background- Sedentary behaviour is associated with poorer cognitive function amongst older adults and may pose a risk to cognitive decline. We tested the feasibility and acceptability of a remotely delivered coaching intervention designed to reduce sedentary behaviour in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Methods- This was a 13-week unblinded, single-centered randomized feasibility study. People with MCI were recruited and randomized to receive five sessions of WALC-R intervention or information on physical activity. ActivPAL-measured sedentary behaviour, self-reported sedentary levels, pre-morbid intelligence, and verbal fluency were measured at baseline and week 13. Results- We recruited 25 people of whom 23 were followed up. 82% of outcome data including valid accelerometer data were collected. Self-reported sedentary levels reduced by 65(36.6) min at follow-up, while device measured sedentary increased by 10.5(17) min. When interviewed, participants found the intervention acceptable. Conclusion- The intervention was feasible and acceptable to participants. A full-scale trial is needed to examine the effectiveness of the intervention on cognitive function in community dwelling older population at risk of cognitive decline.