Dance-style exercise trial planned for older rural adults at early risk of dementia

The aging of China's rural population is severe, with both the prevalence and mortality rates of dementia higher in rural areas than in urban areas. Motor Cognitive Risk Syndrome (MCR), as a novel pre-dementia syndrome characterized by both subjective cognitive decline and slow gait, represents a "golden window of opportunity" for the early prevention and treatment of dementia. Currently, there is no specific pharmacological treatment for MCR; non-pharmacological interventions, particularly exercise interventions, are key strategies. Moderate-intensity aerobic calisthenics, which integrates music, dance, and gymnastic elements, is economical, simple, highly engaging, safe, and has demonstrated potential for improving both cognitive and gait function, making it especially suitable for promotion in resource-limited rural settings. However, there is a lack of systematic, theory-guided exercise intervention protocols and effectiveness validation for rural older adults with MCR. Therefore, this study aims to develop and validate a moderate-intensity aerobic calisthenics intervention protocol tailored to this population.