Exploring the links between visual impairment and cognitive decline in older adults
Official title: Visual impairment and cognitive decline: understanding the longitudinal relationships and mechanisms
Funded at University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-11009492 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how having trouble seeing can affect memory and thinking skills as people get older, especially focusing on how this connection might be influenced by heart health and certain genes, so we can better understand how to help older adults maintain their cognitive abilities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $132,640 |
| NIH project number | 5K01AG080120-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11009492 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing visual impairment or those at risk for cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without visual impairment or significant cognitive concerns may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how visual impairment (VI) affects cognitive decline in older adults, particularly focusing on the relationships between these two conditions over time. It aims to understand the mechanisms behind this connection, including the role of cardiovascular disease risk factors and genetic influences like the APOE ε4 genotype. By examining how VI in midlife impacts cognitive trajectories in later life, the study seeks to uncover potential pathways that contribute to cognitive impairment. The research employs a longitudinal approach to track changes in cognitive function and visual health among participants.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing or mitigating cognitive decline in older adults with visual impairment.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown significant associations between visual impairment and cognitive decline, suggesting that this study builds on established findings rather than exploring entirely novel territory.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Miami School of Medicine
Coral Gables, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zheng, Dandan Diane — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Zheng, Dandan Diane
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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.