How solar energy can help manage chronic diseases in older Puerto Ricans during disasters
Official title: Disasters, solar energy, and chronic disease management in aging Puerto Ricans
Funded at Florida International University · NIH-11023058 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how using solar energy can help older Puerto Ricans with chronic health issues manage their conditions better, especially during power outages caused by natural disasters, and it aims to learn from their experiences to improve support and training in their communities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Florida International University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Miami, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2022 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $540,306 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG072613-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11023058 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Puerto Ricans aged 50 and older who have chronic diseases and live in areas affected by frequent power outages.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 50 or do not have chronic health conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how access to solar energy can improve chronic disease management for aging Puerto Ricans, particularly during natural disasters that cause power outages. By partnering with the community organization Casa Pueblo, the project aims to understand the experiences of older adults (50 years and older) with chronic conditions as they adapt to solar energy solutions. The study will explore community dynamics and individual experiences to identify factors that support or hinder effective management of diseases like diabetes, respiratory issues, and renal disease. The research will also document the processes involved in implementing solar technology and training within these communities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the health and well-being of older Puerto Ricans by improving their access to reliable energy sources, thereby better managing their chronic health conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that energy independence can positively impact health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Florida International University
Miami, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Varas-Diaz, Nelson — Florida International University
- Study coordinator: Varas-Diaz, Nelson
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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.