Exercise Training and Cognitive Function in Kidney Disease: Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is extremely common in older adults and is associated with cognitive impairment. It is hypothesized that accelerated cognitive decline in CKD results from a vascular, dysfunction-induced reduction in the integrity of the brain white matter. OBJECTIVE To describe the protocol for a study to evaluate whether exercise training provides a cerebro-protective effect by improving cerebrovascular health. METHODS This is a randomized, controlled trial investigating feasibility and effect size. RESULTS Participants will be randomized to either a 24-week, home-based, walking program or a usual care group. Participants will undergo evaluation of cognitive function, brain structure via magnetic reasoning imaging, physical function, physical activity, and vascular function. The primary outcome is change in cognitive function. DISCUSSION The findings of this study will help determine whether exercise training influences cognitive function during a therapeutic window in the disease process of cognitive impairment in older adults with CKD. CONCLUSION This protocol describes a study to evaluate cognition and brain structure following a home-based exercise program to an at-risk population.