Baseline characteristics from the My Healthy Brain feasibility randomized control trial

My Healthy Brain is a virtual, group-based mindfulness lifestyle intervention targeting modifiable risk factors for Alzheimer's Disease and Alzheimer's Disease-related dementias (AD/ADRD). The goal of this study was to characterize recruitment, baseline AD/ADRD risk, lifestyle behaviors, cognition, and motivations among participants enrolled in a feasibility randomized controlled trial (N = 60) to evaluate feasibility and contextualize future trial outcomes. Community-dwelling adults aged ≥60 years with subjective cognitive decline and elevated AD/ADRD risk (Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging, and Incidence of Dementia score ≥ 6) were recruited through community-based, hospital, and online strategies. Baseline assessments included demographics, medical history, psychosocial measures, and motivations for health behavior change. Lifestyle and cognitive functioning were assessed using self-report and objective methods (Garmin watch, neuropsychological testing, and mobile cognitive assessments). A total of 407 individuals inquired, 292 completed screening, 73 were eligible, and 60 enrolled and completed baseline assessments. Mean age was 71.5 years, 80.0% were women, 68.3% identified as White, and 63.3% completed a 4-year college degree or higher. Participants reported multiple AD/ADRD risk factors (M = 2.65, SD = 1.62) and subjective cognitive decline symptoms (M = 2.37, SD = 1.14). Cognitive performance was in the low-average range (RBANS Total Scale Index: M = 91.8, SD = 12.9). Wearable data indicated sedentary behavior (M = 4,205 steps/day, SD = 1,936). Sleep duration was adequate (M = 7.5 h/night, SD = 1.2), but perceived sleep quality was poor (PSQI: M = 8.7, SD = 4.2). Clinically meaningful symptoms of depression, anxiety, and loneliness were common. Motivation for AD/ADRD risk reduction was high and most participants identified multiple lifestyle goals (M = 3.4, SD = 1.4). The trial enrolled a motivated sample with elevated and modifiable AD/ADRD risk. Baseline profiles support feasibility and identify clear behavioral, psychosocial, and cognitive targets for intervention and future efficacy testing. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05934136; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05934136 . International registered report identifier (irrid): DERR1-10.2196/64149. Date registered: 06/22/2023