How educational backgrounds affect cognitive health in older adults
State and Local Educational Contexts of Older U.S. Adults and Their Association with Cognitive Impairment and Dementia
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK · NIH-10837709
This study looks at how the level of education people have affects their chances of developing memory problems or dementia as they get older, especially considering differences between races and regions, to help understand how education can impact brain health later in life.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (COLLEGE PARK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10837709 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between educational attainment and the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia among older adults, particularly focusing on differences across racial and regional contexts. It examines how historical educational environments, especially for Black and White individuals, have influenced cognitive health outcomes. By analyzing data from various birth cohorts, the study aims to uncover the impact of educational disparities on dementia risk. The methodology includes a comprehensive review of educational funding and its correlation with cognitive health in later life.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those from diverse racial backgrounds, who have varying levels of educational attainment.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 or do not have a history of educational experiences in the U.S. may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of how educational policies and contexts can be leveraged to reduce the risk of dementia in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that educational attainment is a significant predictor of cognitive health, indicating that this approach has a foundation in established findings.
Where this research is happening
COLLEGE PARK, UNITED STATES
- UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK — COLLEGE PARK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WALSEMANN, KATRINA — UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK
- Study coordinator: WALSEMANN, KATRINA
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia