🧠 US POINTER Trial: Structured Lifestyle Plan Boosts Brain Health

A structured, goal-oriented lifestyle program improves cognitive function in at-risk older adults more than a self-guided approach.

Published In: JAMA
Date: July 2025
Authors: Baker, et al.
Link to Study: JAMA – US POINTER Trial

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Summary

The US POINTER trial compared two 2-year lifestyle programs in over 2,100 older adults at risk for dementia. Both programs promoted exercise, healthy diet, mental stimulation, and social connection, but one offered structured support while the other was self-guided. The structured approach led to significantly greater improvements in overall brain function, especially executive function.

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Key Takeaways

✅ A structured program led to greater gains in global cognition than a self-guided one.
✅ The cognitive benefit was especially strong in executive function and in those starting with lower cognitive performance.
✅ The program was effective across age, sex, APOE ε4 gene status, and cardiovascular risk.
✅ Both approaches were safe and had high adherence.

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Why It Matters for You

The US POINTER study reinforces the value of combining multiple healthy lifestyle habits, including physical activity, nutritious eating, mental and social engagement, into a coordinated plan with structure and support. Having guidance, peer connection, and clear goals may help sustain changes that protect your memory and thinking abilities over time.

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Citation

Baker, L. D., et al. (2025). Structured vs Self-Guided Multidomain Lifestyle Interventions for Global Cognitive Function: The US POINTER Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA. Advance online publication.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37776210/