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Effectiveness of Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation on Functional Capacity in Pre-Frail Individuals (NeuroFit)

Older adults with frailty often experience mobility problems that significantly affect their health and quality of life. With the rapid aging of the population, it is essential to develop strategies that help prevent disability and promote healthy aging. Our project evaluates new therapies combined with physical exercise to improve functional capacity and quality of life in pre-frail individuals.
Acronym

Neurofit

Reference code

CIAICO/2024/107

Description

The main objective of this project is to evaluate the effectiveness of non-invasive neuromodulation, combined with a therapeutic exercise program, to promote neuroplasticity and improve functional capacity and quality of life in pre-frail individuals.

 

Intervention

The study analyzes three innovative non-invasive neuromodulation strategies applied together with therapeutic exercise::

  1. Virtual walking (VW)
  2. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
  3. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)

 

The effect of the intervention will be assessed on:

  • Gait speed

  • Overall physical condition

  • Frailty status

  • Static and dynamic functionality, and gait quality

  • Upper and lower-limb isometric strength

  • Quality of life

  • Neuroplasticity (plasma BDNF levels)

 

Inclusion criteria:

  • Individuals aged 65 to 90 years

  • Meeting 1–2 frailty criteria (Fried criteria)

  • Ability to understand instructions (Mini-Mental State Examination > 23)

  • Signed informed consent

Developers of the project
Principal investigators:
  • Serra Año, Maria Pilar
  • PDI-Catedratic/a d'Universitat
  • Vicerector/A
  • Vicerectorat de Sostenibilitat, Cooperacio i Vida Saludable
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  • Ingles De La Torre, Marta
  • PDI-Titular d'Universitat
  • Vicedega/Vicedegana / Vicedirector/a Ets
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Participating researchers:
  • Muñoz Gomez, Elena
  • PDI-Ajudant Doctor/A
  • Coordinador/a Curs
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  • Molla Casanova, Sara
  • PDI-Ajudant Doctor/A
  • Cap de Seccio-Servei
  • Cap Iniciatives Per a Sostenibilitat
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  • Moreno Segura, Noemi
  • PDI-Ajudant Doctor/A
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  • Gonzalez Pons, Hector
  • PI-Invest Formacio Predoc Fpu
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Start date
2025 September
End date
2028 December
Results

In process.

Project type
  • GVA - AICO - Consolidated groups