How memory affects decision-making as we age

Memory guided planning across the lifespan

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE · NIH-11133702

This study is looking at how memory affects the choices we make as we get older, especially for those with Alzheimer’s and similar conditions, to better understand how different types of memory influence our decisions.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (IRVINE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11133702 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how memory influences decision-making across different ages, particularly focusing on older adults. It aims to understand the relationship between memory precision and the ability to make context-specific decisions, which can be impaired in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. By employing a combination of computational models and neurobiological methods, the study will explore how different types of memory, such as item and context memory, affect choices. Participants will engage in tasks designed to assess their memory and decision-making capabilities, providing insights into the cognitive processes involved.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults, especially those experiencing memory decline or diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger and do not exhibit any memory impairments may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for enhancing decision-making abilities in older adults, particularly those affected by memory-related conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the links between memory and decision-making, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

IRVINE, 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 →

Conditions: age associated disease, age associated disorder

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.