Investigating cognitive aging risks in mothers of children with autism.

Neuropsychological Profiles and Risk for Dementia-Related Disease in Mothers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

NIH-funded research University of South Carolina at Columbia · NIH-10909949

This study is looking at how being a mom to a child with autism might affect brain health as these moms get older, especially in terms of stress and genetics, to better understand their unique challenges and help find ways to support them.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of South Carolina at Columbia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10909949 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how being a mother of a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may increase the risk of cognitive decline and dementia-related diseases. It examines the potential link between stress factors and genetic predispositions that could lead to accelerated cognitive aging in these mothers. By analyzing neuropsychological profiles, the study aims to identify specific risk factors and their impact on cognitive health over time. The findings could help in understanding the unique challenges faced by these mothers and inform future interventions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are mothers of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have children with autism spectrum disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted strategies for preventing cognitive decline in mothers of children with autism.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that caregivers of individuals with disabilities face increased cognitive aging risks, suggesting that this area of study is both relevant and necessary.

Where this research is happening

Columbia, 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.
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.