Investigating brain blood flow regulation in older adults at risk for dementia
The POINTER Neurovascular Ancillary Study
This study is looking at how changes in blood flow in the brain as we age might impact thinking skills in older adults, specifically those aged 60-79 who are healthy but at a higher risk for dementia, and it will include activities to help boost brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Winston-Salem, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10771146 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how age-related changes in blood flow regulation in the brain can affect cognitive health in older adults. It aims to identify early biomarkers of neurodegeneration by measuring cerebral autoregulation and baroreflex sensitivity. The study involves older adults aged 60-79 who are cognitively normal but at increased risk for dementia due to various factors. Participants will be involved in lifestyle interventions designed to improve cognitive function and overall brain health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults aged 60-79 who are cognitively normal but have a family history of memory impairment or other risk factors for dementia.
Not a fit: Patients who are already diagnosed with advanced dementia or those under 60 years of age may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to early detection and prevention strategies for dementia, improving the quality of life for older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using lifestyle interventions to improve cognitive outcomes in at-risk populations, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
Winston-Salem, United States
- Wake Forest University Health Sciences — Winston-Salem, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brinkley, Tina E — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Brinkley, Tina E
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.