Creating a comprehensive database to study aging in America
Prospective Microdata for Research on Aging
This study is creating a big database using information from the 1950 U.S. Census to see how things like family life and money when you were young can affect your health and happiness as you get older, helping researchers learn more about aging and what influences it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11004371 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a large microdata resource using the 1950 U.S. Census, which will be linked to various health surveys and records to analyze how early life conditions affect health and well-being in later life. By examining factors such as socioeconomic status and family structure, the project seeks to uncover insights into cognitive impairment and mortality. The extensive database will provide detailed geographic and contextual information, enabling researchers to conduct in-depth analyses of aging across the population. This initiative will significantly enhance the understanding of aging and its determinants.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who were part of the U.S. population in 1950 and are now experiencing aging-related health issues.
Not a fit: Patients who are not part of the 1950 U.S. population or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for promoting healthy aging and addressing cognitive decline.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research utilizing historical census data has shown success in understanding health trends and aging, indicating that this approach is promising.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ruggles, Steve — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Ruggles, Steve
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 below.