Participate in the Project

Participation begins with a screening phase that takes place up to four weeks before the start of the study. During this stage, the study physician reviews the inclusion and exclusion criteria and assesses medical, physical, and cognitive suitability for participation. If eligibility is confirmed and written informed consent is provided, participants are enrolled and assigned to one of the study groups.

At T1, the baseline assessment is carried out.This includes cognitive testing, questionnaires, anthropometric measurements, body composition assessment, physical performance and strength testing, and the collection of biological samples.

The main intervention phase lasts 18 weeks. During this period, participants receive the intervention according to their group allocation. Depending on the group, this may include supplementation, resistance training, or a combination of both.

At T2, after 18 weeks, the final assessment is performed. The same examinations carried out at baseline are repeated at this time point.

Inclusion Criteria

Participants must:

• be between 65 and 85 years of age
• have a Mini Mental State score above 23
• be independently mobile without aids, such as a walker or cane

Exclusion Criteria

For participant safety, individuals are excluded if safe participation in progressive resistance training cannot be ensured. This includes, in particular:

• severe cardiovascular diseases
• pulmonary limitations
• orthopaedic or musculoskeletal limitations
• unstable or progressive neurological diseases
• poorly controlled diabetes mellitus with relevant complications
• a Frailty Index of 3 or higher
• acute infectious diseases or fever
• general contraindications to physical exercise

Participants are also excluded if any of the following apply:

• oral anticoagulation or long term antiplatelet therapy
• known coagulation disorders
• a major planned operation within 3 months after study completion
• certain cardiovascular conditions associated with increased bleeding risk
• known allergy to fish, crustaceans, or fish oil preparations
• current use of omega 3 supplements

If you are interested in participating, the study team will guide you through the next steps. After your first contact, you will receive more detailed information about the study and have the opportunity to ask questions.

If participation is possible, an appointment with the study physician will be arranged to review eligibility and discuss the study process. Written informed consent is required before enrolment.

Throughout the study, participants are supported by the study team and can contact them whenever questions arise.

Before participation, you will receive detailed information about the study and have the opportunity to ask questions. You can only take part after providing written informed consent.

Your data will be handled confidentially and stored using a participant code rather than your name. According to the protocol, access is limited to the authorised study team. Biological samples and study records are stored only as long as necessary for analysis and publication, and for no longer than 10 years.

The study is conducted in line with legal and ethical requirements, including EU data protection rules.