Exploring how social networks affect cognitive aging in older adults
Official title: Examining the Relevance of Social Network Characteristics and Cognitive Aging: A Causal Inference Study
Funded at University of California Berkeley · NIH-11071776 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how staying connected with friends and family can help older adults, especially those 65 and up, keep their minds sharp as they age, particularly during times when they might feel more isolated, like during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project start | May 26, 2025 |
| Project end | May 25, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AG087682-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11071776 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who may be experiencing cognitive changes or social isolation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 or those with severe cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of social networks on cognitive aging, particularly in individuals aged 65 and older. It focuses on how social interactions, both quantitative and qualitative, can serve as cognitive buffers against decline, especially in the context of increased isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. By analyzing data from the Health and Retirement Study, the research aims to differentiate between objective social isolation and subjective feelings of loneliness, examining their effects on cognitive health. The study seeks to identify the protective mechanisms of diverse social connections and their potential to mitigate cognitive decline.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to strategies that enhance social connections to improve cognitive health in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that social engagement can positively influence cognitive health, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Berkeley
Berkeley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Soria, Christopher — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Soria, Christopher
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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.