New findings from the Alzheimer’s Association’s U.S. Study to Protect Brain Health Through Lifestyle Intervention to Reduce Risk (U.S. POINTER) reveal that lifestyle changes can significantly improve cognitive function in older adults at risk for cognitive decline and dementia.
The two-year, multi-site randomized clinical trial tested two lifestyle interventions among a diverse group of 2,111 older adults across five U.S. academic centers and health care systems. Both structured and self-guided lifestyle interventions led to cognitive improvements, with the structured program showing greater gains in global cognition.
These results were presented today at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference 2025 in Toronto and simultaneously published in JAMA.
U.S. POINTER is the first large-scale trial to demonstrate that accessible, sustainable lifestyle changes can protect cognitive function in diverse communities across the United States.
Both interventions emphasized physical activity, nutrition, cognitive stimulation, social engagement and heart health monitoring. The structured program differed in its intensity, accountability and support.
Structured Lifestyle Intervention
Participants engaged in 38 facilitated peer team meetings over two years. They followed a prescribed program with measurable goals in:
- Aerobic, resistance and stretching exercises
- Adherence to the MIND diet
- Cognitive training and social activities
- Regular health reviews and goal-setting with a study clinician
Self-Guided Lifestyle Intervention
Participants attended six peer meetings and chose lifestyle changes that suited their preferences and schedules. Study staff offered general encouragement without structured coaching.
“The potential to improve cognition with fewer resources and lower participant burden is compelling. It highlights that while not everyone has the same access or ability to adhere to more intensive behavior interventions, even modest changes may protect the brain,” said Laura D. Baker, Ph.D., professor of gerontology and geriatrics, and internal medicine at Wake Forest University School of Medicine and Advocate Health. Baker is also the U.S. POINTER principal investigator.
“These are the initial results. Over the coming weeks and months, study leadership will be exploring all of the data collected in the trial to paint an even more comprehensive picture of the U.S. POINTER intervention effects on brain health,” Baker said.
Read the full release from the Alzheimer’s Association.
Media contact: Myra Wright, mgwright@wakehealth.edu