Age differences in social networks across the lifespan
Official title: A Comparative Analysis of Age Differences in Social Networks
Funded at Georgia State University · NIH-11417125 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A K18 grant exploring how social networks change with age and what this means for older adults’ health and well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgia State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | September 16, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $207,032 |
| NIH project number | 5K18AG095817-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11417125 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Older adults experiencing natural aging-related changes in social networks and cognition.
✕Less likely to help
Findings may not directly benefit younger individuals or those without aging-related social changes.
What this research studies
This project examines how social networks narrow with age and what that means for health. It discusses ideas from social and emotional theories, compares human patterns to findings in nonhuman primates, and considers how cognitive aging shifts people toward more meaningful relationships. The work will analyze how aging and cognitive changes influence social engagement and resource use over time. By studying these patterns, the research aims to inform ways to support socially connected, healthier aging.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the project could inform interventions to preserve meaningful social connections and improve well-being in later life.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work has shown age-related changes in social networks and adaptive strategies, with ongoing interest in cross-species comparisons.
Where this research is happening
-
Georgia State University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Barber, Sarah J — Georgia State University
- Study coordinator: Barber, Sarah J
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.