Investigating how Alzheimer's disease and trauma affect cognitive decline in older veterans

Early Cognitive Impairment as a function of Alzheimer's Disease and Trauma

NIH-funded research VA Boston Health Care System · NIH-11098494

This study is looking at how experiences like combat and injuries might affect the memory and thinking skills of veterans over 65 who have Alzheimer's, and it aims to find out how these factors work together with genetics to influence their brain health.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVA Boston Health Care System NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11098494 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the relationship between Alzheimer's disease, trauma, and cognitive impairment in veterans aged 65 and older. It examines how factors such as combat exposure, PTSD, and traumatic brain injuries may interact with genetic predispositions to increase the risk of dementia. By utilizing data from one of the largest biobanks linked to electronic medical records, the study aims to identify specific genetic and environmental interactions that contribute to cognitive decline. Participants may undergo assessments to evaluate their cognitive health and provide valuable data for understanding these complex relationships.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans aged 65 and older who may have experienced trauma or have a family history of Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have a history of trauma or Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing or managing cognitive decline in older veterans.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the interactions between genetic factors and environmental exposures in cognitive decline, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.