Exploring the link between physical frailty and cognitive impairment in older adults

Concurrent trajectories of physical frailty and cognitive impairment among nursing home residents and community-dwelling older adults

NIH-funded research Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-10898069

This study is looking at how physical weakness and memory problems often happen together in older adults, especially those living in nursing homes or in the community, to better understand how these issues affect each other and how depression might play a role, with the goal of finding ways to help those who are most at risk.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Worcester, United States)
Project IDNIH-10898069 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how physical frailty and cognitive impairment coexist among older adults, particularly focusing on those in nursing homes and community settings. It aims to understand the prevalence of these conditions and their complex interactions, including how they may influence each other and the role of depression in this relationship. By utilizing longitudinal data and advanced statistical methods, the study seeks to identify subgroups of older adults who may be at higher risk for these issues, ultimately aiming to improve management strategies for affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above, particularly those living in nursing homes or community-dwelling settings who may be experiencing physical frailty or cognitive impairment.

Not a fit: Patients under 65 years old or those without any signs of physical frailty or cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of frailty and cognitive impairment, improving the quality of life for older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the interplay between physical frailty and cognitive impairment can lead to significant advancements in care strategies, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Worcester, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.