How aging affects balance and cognitive functions in older adults

Impact of vestibular loss on central vestibular pathways in aging adults

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11222276

This study is looking at how getting older affects our balance and sense of direction, and how those changes might be linked to memory and thinking skills in older adults.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11222276 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the vestibular system, which helps control balance and spatial orientation, is impacted by aging. It focuses on understanding the relationship between vestibular loss and cognitive decline in older adults, particularly in areas like memory and navigation. By analyzing neuroimaging data, the study aims to uncover structural changes in the brain associated with vestibular function and how these changes relate to cognitive skills. The research utilizes advanced computational methods to assess these relationships in a comprehensive manner.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing vestibular loss or balance issues.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 or do not have vestibular loss may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions for cognitive decline related to vestibular loss in aging adults.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the link between vestibular function and cognitive processes, suggesting that this approach is building on established findings.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.