How social isolation affects aging and health in people with schizophrenia
The impact of social isolation on aging health in schizophrenia
['FUNDING_R01'] · ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI · NIH-11161436
This project looks at whether being socially isolated makes people with schizophrenia develop age-related health problems earlier.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11161436 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would join an international group of about 650 people who will be followed over time to track health as they age. The study brings together participants from Europe (EU-GEI) and the US (Olin Neuropsychiatry Research Center) and includes roughly 500 people with schizophrenia plus others for comparison. Researchers will gather information on social contacts, health history, medical conditions, lifestyle, and regular follow-ups to see how social isolation relates to physical health over the years. The goal is to learn whether loneliness or lack of social connection contributes to earlier onset of age-related illnesses in people with schizophrenia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults diagnosed with schizophrenia—especially older adults or those who have limited social contact—would be the main candidates for this work.
Not a fit: People without schizophrenia or those who are younger and not socially isolated may not directly benefit from this specific study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could point to improving social support as a way to slow premature aging and boost long-term health for people with schizophrenia.
How similar studies have performed: Prior pilot studies and research in the general population link social isolation to worse health, but longitudinal studies focused on schizophrenia remain limited.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: REICHENBERG, ABRAHAM — ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI
- Study coordinator: REICHENBERG, ABRAHAM
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.