Intentional Weight Reduction and Physical and Cognitive Function (LOOKAHEAD Ancillary)

Long Name: Intentional Weight Reduction and Physical and Cognitive Function (LOOKAHEAD Ancillary)

Investigators (list PI first):
Stephen Kritchevsky, PhD

Funding Agency:
National Institute on Aging

Funding Dates:
2009- 2014

Research questions or aims: 
We propose to add validated and well-established measures of physical and cognitive performance to the year 8 or year 9 follow-up visit – during the trial’s weight maintenance phase –in 1002 participants  

The specific aims of this ancillary study are: 1) To determine the long-term effects of a lifestyle intervention designed to achieve and maintain weight loss on physical function; and 2) To determine the long-term effects of a lifestyle intervention designed to achieve and maintain weight loss on cognitive function. In addition, we hypothesize that in the intervention group, larger initial weight loss, better weight loss maintenance, and higher physical activity will be associated with better physical and cognitive function. We also hypothesize that in the control group weight loss will be associated with worse physical and cognitive function than in those who are weight stable or who have gained weight. The number of obese older adults is rising rapidly and there are few data to guide an evidence-based clinical response to their management.  

Target population:
People who participated in the LOOK Ahead trial at 4 of the 16 Look AHEAD field sites (Colorado, Memphis, Pennington and Pittsburgh).

Target # to enroll:
1002                 

Target Dates of enrollment:
2009-2013

Types of assessments and questionnaires:
Modified Mini-Mental Status Examination (3MSE), Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST), Stroop Test, PAT-D, Trails A&B, SPPB, Grip Strength,  400 m walk, Knee extensor strength

Other data collected:
Telephone Interview for Cognition (TICS), Functional Assessment Questionnaire (FAQ)

Project Manager Contact Info:
Michelle Gordon
Email: migordon@wakehealth.edu

Phone: 336-713-8546