How trauma affects cognitive aging in older adults
Official title: Cognitive Aging Trajectories in Survivors of Trauma
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-11012377 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how PTSD might affect memory and thinking skills in older adults aged 65 and up, to see if it could lead to dementia, and it hopes to find ways to help those at risk stay mentally healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $125,590 |
| NIH project number | 5K01AG070279-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012377 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are older adults aged 65 and above who have experienced trauma and may exhibit symptoms of PTSD.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have a history of trauma or PTSD may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and cognitive decline in older adults, particularly those aged 65 and above. It aims to understand how PTSD may increase the risk of developing dementia and to explore the effects of factors like sex and genetic predisposition on cognitive aging trajectories. By conducting a longitudinal study, the research will track cognitive changes over time in individuals with PTSD, providing insights into the potential for early prevention strategies. The findings could help identify at-risk populations and inform interventions to support cognitive health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention strategies for cognitive decline and dementia in older adults with a history of trauma.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated a strong link between PTSD and cognitive decline, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights, although the specific longitudinal methodology may be novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lawrence, Karen Ann — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Lawrence, Karen Ann
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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.