How social and environmental factors affect memory decline and dementia in older adults in the U.S.

Historical social and environmental determinants of memory decline and dementia among U.S. older adults

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11088736

This study looks at how growing up in tough neighborhoods and being around air pollution might affect memory and the risk of dementia as people get older, especially focusing on differences among racial groups in the U.S.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11088736 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how social and environmental conditions, particularly in early life, influence the development of memory decline and dementia among older adults in the U.S. It focuses on the impact of living in disadvantaged communities and exposure to air pollution on cognitive health. By analyzing a nationally representative sample, the study aims to understand the relationship between these factors and racial disparities in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The research employs rigorous evaluation methods to assess both social and environmental influences on cognitive decline.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those from racially diverse backgrounds who have lived in socioeconomically disadvantaged communities.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of living in disadvantaged communities or who are not at risk for Alzheimer's disease or related dementias may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted interventions that improve cognitive health and reduce the risk of dementia in vulnerable populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that social and environmental factors significantly impact cognitive health, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, 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: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome

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.