How aging and environment shape our ability to navigate spaces
Influences of Environmental Geometry and Aging on Cognitive Mapping Mechanisms
This study looks at how getting older and our surroundings affect how well we remember and navigate spaces, especially for older adults and those with Alzheimer’s, to help us understand more about memory changes as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgia Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11086635 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain's entorhinal cortex, which helps us form and remember cognitive maps, is influenced by aging and environmental factors. Using advanced virtual navigation and fMRI techniques, the study aims to uncover how changes in our surroundings affect our spatial memory and navigation abilities, particularly in older adults and those with Alzheimer’s-related dementia. By understanding these mechanisms, the research seeks to clarify the relationship between cognitive decline and environmental geometry.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults and individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s-related dementia or those at risk due to genetic factors.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing cognitive decline or do not have any age-related cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for enhancing navigation skills and cognitive function in aging populations and individuals with Alzheimer’s-related dementia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cognitive mapping and navigation in relation to aging and dementia, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Georgia Institute of Technology — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brown, Thackery Ian — Georgia Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Brown, Thackery Ian
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 below.