Exploring how social isolation affects Alzheimer's disease and related dementias
Official title: Project 4: Social isolation as a driver of AD/ADRD incidence and disparities
Funded at Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-10934717 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how being socially isolated might raise the chances of older adults developing Alzheimer's and other related memory issues, especially in different communities, and it will also explore ways to help people stay connected to reduce these risks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $696,913 |
| NIH project number | 1P01AG082653-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10934717 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who experience social isolation and are at risk for Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing social isolation or who do not have risk factors for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of social isolation on the incidence of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) among older adults. It aims to understand how limited social contact can increase the risk of developing these conditions, especially in diverse population groups. The study will also explore potential interventions to enhance social connections and reduce the risk of ADRDs. By examining the effects of social isolation before and during the pandemic, the research seeks to fill gaps in current knowledge and improve intervention strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective interventions that reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias by addressing social isolation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated a correlation between social isolation and increased risk of dementia, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston University Medical Campus
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Torres, Jacqueline Marie — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Torres, Jacqueline Marie
Related research
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How social isolation affects aging health in schizophrenia
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The effect of social isolation on aging health in people with schizophrenia
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UCSF Prevention Center to Reduce Loneliness in older LGBTQ+ adults
A center at UCSF will partner with communities to reduce loneliness and social isolation among LGBTQ+ adults ages 60 and up.
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Genetic and brain factors behind how people respond to social isolation
A study to understand why some individuals respond differently to social isolation by looking at genes and brain circuits.
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.