A web-based multidomain lifestyle intervention with connected devices for older adults: research protocol of the eMIND pilot randomized controlled trial

Background Multidomain interventions composed of nutritional counseling, exercise and cognitive trainings have shown encouraging results as effective preventive strategies delaying age-related declines. However, these interventions are time- and resource-consuming. The use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) might facilitate the translation from research into real-world practice and reach a massive number of people. Aim This article describes the protocol of the eMIND study, a randomized controlled trial (RCT) using a web-based multidomain intervention for older adults. Methods One hundred and twenty older adults (≥ 65 years), with a spontaneous memory complaint, will be randomly assigned to a six-month web-based multidomain (nutritional counseling, physical and cognitive trainings) intervention group with a connected accelerometer (number of steps, energy expenditure), or to a control group with access to general information on healthy aging plus the accelerometer, but no access to the multidomain intervention. The main outcome is the feasibility/acceptability of the web-based intervention. Secondary clinical outcomes include: cognitive functions, physical performance, nutritional status and cost-effectiveness. Results We expect a high amount of adherers (ie, > 75% compliance to the protocol) to reflect the feasibility. Acceptability, assessed through interviews, should allow us to understand motivators and barriers to this ICT intervention. We also expect to provide data on its effects on various clinical outcomes and efficiency. Conclusion and discussion The eMIND study will provide crucial information to help developing a future and larger web-based multidomain lifestyle RCT, which should facilitate the translation of this ICT intervention from the research world into real-life clinical practice for the healthcare of older adults.