How loneliness and social isolation affect brain aging and Alzheimer's disease
Brain and Behavioral Mechanisms Linking Loneliness and Social Isolation with Accelerated Cognitive Aging and Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias
This study is looking at how feeling lonely and being socially isolated can affect memory and thinking as we age, especially in older adults, and it aims to find ways to help people connect with others to improve their overall well-being and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10784034 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between loneliness, social isolation, and their impact on cognitive aging and Alzheimer's disease. It aims to identify effective strategies to reduce loneliness and social isolation, which are linked to cognitive decline. By studying the underlying brain and behavioral mechanisms, the research seeks to develop interventions that promote social connections and improve mental and physical health in older adults. The goal is to enhance quality of life and prevent the onset of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing loneliness or social isolation who are at risk for cognitive decline or Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing loneliness or social isolation, or those who are already diagnosed with advanced Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective interventions that improve mental health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in addressing loneliness and social isolation as factors in cognitive health, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- University of Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Van Orden, Kimberly Allison — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Van Orden, Kimberly Allison
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.