Exercise for Vision Impairment
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether exercise can improve vision by examining blood markers, which are substances in the blood that indicate health changes. It includes two types of exercise: aerobic activities, such as walking or cycling, and balance training. Participants will exercise three times a week to determine if these activities provide sight-saving benefits. This study suits English-speaking adults who have been mostly inactive for the past three months and do not have severe diabetes or significant cognitive issues. As an unphased trial, participants contribute to groundbreaking research that may lead to new insights into vision health.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that aerobic exercise is generally safe and well-tolerated by people with vision impairments. Studies have found that activities like tai chi, yoga, and dance can be beneficial without causing significant harm. A review of several studies found that aerobic exercise helps improve balance and mobility in those with visual impairments, suggesting it is a safe option for many.
Although specific data on negative effects is limited, the regular use of aerobic exercise in various studies suggests it usually doesn't lead to serious side effects. It's important to note that the types of exercise in these studies, such as aerobic and balance training, are common activities known for being safe for most people.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores exercise as a way to help those with vision impairment, which is a departure from the standard medical or surgical interventions like glasses, contact lenses, or surgeries. The trial investigates aerobic and balance exercises, both of which are simple, non-invasive, and accessible methods that could improve vision indirectly by enhancing overall body coordination and eye-brain connection. This approach could be particularly beneficial as it avoids potential side effects associated with medications or surgical procedures, and empowers individuals to take an active role in managing their vision health.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for vision impairment?
Research has shown that aerobic exercise, one of the treatments in this trial, can improve balance and movement in people with vision problems. A study that reviewed various research papers found that regular aerobic activities enhance these physical abilities, which are crucial for daily life. This type of exercise has improved both standing and moving balance in individuals with vision impairments, including children and teenagers. Additionally, there may be a connection between exercise and better eye health, suggesting that regular physical activity could help protect vision. Meanwhile, balance training, another treatment arm in this trial, has been studied less but is also believed to aid stability and coordination. These findings suggest that exercise could benefit those with vision impairments.26789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Jeffrey H. Boatright, PhD
Principal Investigator
Atlanta VA Medical and Rehab Center, Decatur, GA
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for English-speaking adults aged 18 to 89 who are mostly inactive, doing less than 120 minutes of aerobic exercise per week over the last three months. Participants should not have dementia (with an MMSE score of at least 24) and cannot join if they have severe diabetes requiring insulin or cognitive-executive function deficits (MoCA score below 26).Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo a 12-week aerobic exercise regimen to assess visual outcomes and serum biomarkers
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Aerobic exercise
- Balance exercise
Aerobic exercise is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:
- Rehabilitation after stroke
- Improvement of physical function
- Enhancement of cognitive function
- Reduction of depression
- Cardiovascular rehabilitation
- Improvement of physical function
- Enhancement of cognitive function
- Rehabilitation after stroke
- Improvement of physical function
- Enhancement of cognitive function
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
VA Office of Research and Development
Lead Sponsor