Identifying early signs of cognitive decline and dementia through survey responses

Testing early markers of cognitive decline and dementia derived from survey response behaviors

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · NIH-10845528

This study is looking at how older adults answer surveys to find early signs of memory and thinking problems, like dementia, so we can catch them sooner and help people stay healthy.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10845528 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to discover early markers of cognitive decline and dementia by analyzing how older adults respond to surveys. It focuses on identifying subtle functional deficits that may indicate the onset of dementia, which are often hard to detect with traditional methods. By examining response patterns in surveys, the study seeks to develop cost-effective and unobtrusive indices that can serve as early indicators of cognitive impairment. The research will utilize existing population surveys to derive these indices from participants' behaviors while completing questionnaires.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who may be experiencing mild cognitive impairment or are at risk for dementia.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or those with advanced dementia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection of cognitive decline, allowing for timely interventions and improved patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using behavioral indicators from survey responses to detect cognitive decline, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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 →

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.