Exploring how neighborhoods affect cognitive health in older Americans during and after the COVID-19 pandemic
Aging in Place since the COVID-19 Pandemic Onset: A Study of Neighborhoods and Cognitive Health among Older Americans
This study looks at how the neighborhoods where older adults live can affect their brain health, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, by checking what activities are available and how changes during the pandemic might have influenced their thinking skills.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10886837 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the neighborhoods where older Americans live influence their cognitive health, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. It examines the availability of social, intellectual, and physical activities in these neighborhoods and how disruptions caused by the pandemic may have impacted cognitive decline. By analyzing data from the Health and Retirement Study, the research aims to identify key neighborhood features that support cognitive health and mitigate risks associated with Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 51 and above, particularly those living independently with Alzheimer's Disease or related dementias.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 51 or do not have cognitive impairments related to Alzheimer's Disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved community planning and resources that enhance cognitive health for older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that neighborhood environments can significantly impact cognitive health, suggesting that this approach has potential for meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
Boulder, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado — Boulder, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Finlay, Jessica Marie — University of Colorado
- Study coordinator: Finlay, Jessica Marie
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.