How optimism might protect memory and thinking as we age
Optimism and Dementia-Related Health Outcomes
This project will look at whether people who are more optimistic keep their memory and thinking skills better as they get older, and whether activity levels and biological factors help explain that link.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard University D/b/a Harvard School of Public Health NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11179340 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you join, researchers will measure optimism, track thinking and memory over time, and collect information on physical activity using wearable accelerometers. They will also look at biological signals that might connect a hopeful outlook to brain health, such as markers from blood and the gut microbiome. The team will use data from adults across the lifespan to see which patterns predict slower cognitive decline. Findings will be used to point toward ways to help people protect thinking and memory as they age.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults aged 21 and older, especially older adults worried about memory or at risk for Alzheimer's-related dementia, who can wear an activity monitor and provide health information or samples, are the most likely candidates.
Not a fit: People with advanced dementia who cannot complete cognitive testing, wear monitors, or provide samples are unlikely to benefit directly from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new, modifiable targets—like boosting optimism or activity—that help prevent or slow age-related memory decline.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has linked optimism to longer life and higher activity levels, but evidence specifically showing optimism protects against cognitive decline and the biological pathways involved is limited.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Harvard University D/b/a Harvard School of Public Health — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kubzansky, Laura D — Harvard University D/b/a Harvard School of Public Health
- Study coordinator: Kubzansky, Laura D
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.