Exploring how social connections help protect the cognitive health of older adults
Understanding how social connectedness protects older adults' cognitive health: the role of social cognition
This study is looking at how staying socially connected can help older adults delay the onset of Alzheimer's and other dementias, and it aims to find out how interacting with others can boost brain health and improve thinking skills.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Trustees of Indiana University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bloomington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10888334 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how maintaining social connections can delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias in older adults. It focuses on understanding the role of social cognitive function, which involves how individuals perceive and interact with others, in enhancing cognitive resilience. By examining the interplay between personal social networks and cognitive abilities, the study aims to identify effective social and lifestyle interventions that can support cognitive health. Participants will engage in complex social interactions to stimulate their cognitive functions, potentially leading to improved outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are at risk for cognitive decline or Alzheimer's disease and have active social networks.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for cognitive decline or who have limited social interactions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide strategies for older adults to maintain cognitive health and delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that social connectedness can positively impact cognitive health, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results.
Where this research is happening
Bloomington, United States
- Trustees of Indiana University — Bloomington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Krendl, Anne Catherine — Trustees of Indiana University
- Study coordinator: Krendl, Anne Catherine
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.