Improving handgrip strength assessment in older adults

GRip Assessment for Protocol Enhancements (GRAPE) in Older Adults

NIH-funded research North Dakota State University · NIH-10358902

This study is looking for ways to better understand how well older adults' muscles work by testing more than just how strong their grip is, so we can help predict and prevent health issues as they age.

Quick facts

Grant typeR15 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorth Dakota State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Fargo, United States)
Project IDNIH-10358902 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how to enhance the assessment of muscle function in older adults by going beyond just measuring maximal handgrip strength. It aims to evaluate additional aspects of muscle function, such as coordination, explosiveness, and resistance to fatigue, which are often overlooked in traditional assessments. By developing a more comprehensive protocol, the research seeks to better predict age-related disabilities and diseases, ultimately improving health screenings and interventions for older individuals. Participants will undergo various tests to assess these different muscle function characteristics.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who may be experiencing declines in muscle function or are at risk for age-related disabilities.

Not a fit: Patients who are not elderly or do not have concerns related to muscle function may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved assessments of muscle function, helping to identify risks for age-related disabilities and enabling targeted interventions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that comprehensive assessments of muscle function can lead to better health outcomes, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Fargo, 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.
Conditions Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.