Helping underserved older adults improve their health during the COVID-19 pandemic

Improving Physical and Psychosocial Functioning in Underserved Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Community Health Worker-Led Intervention

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-10865117

This study is all about helping older African Americans in Detroit feel better physically and mentally during the COVID-19 pandemic by providing them with support and tools to manage their health and connect with their community.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10865117 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the physical and mental well-being of underserved older adults, particularly African Americans in Detroit, during the COVID-19 pandemic. It employs a community health worker-led intervention called 'Positive STEPS' that aims to provide self-management strategies, build resilience, and foster social support. By addressing systemic inequities and promoting community engagement, the project seeks to mitigate the negative impacts of the pandemic on this vulnerable population. Participants will receive tailored support to improve their health outcomes and overall quality of life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are underserved older adults, particularly those from African American communities in Detroit, who are experiencing health challenges exacerbated by the pandemic.

Not a fit: Patients who are not part of the underserved older adult demographic or those who do not reside in the targeted geographic area may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the physical and psychosocial functioning of older adults affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that community health worker-led interventions can effectively improve health outcomes in underserved populations, suggesting a promising approach for this project.

Where this research is happening

ANN ARBOR, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.