Investigating how community volunteering affects Alzheimer's disease risk over time
Long-term Effects of a Community-based Volunteer Trial on Lifestyle Activity and Risk for Alzheimer's Disease
This study is looking at how volunteering in your community can help older adults stay healthy and possibly lower their chances of getting Alzheimer's disease as they age, building on earlier findings that showed volunteering can boost brain function and promote a healthier lifestyle.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10412082 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the long-term effects of community-based volunteering on lifestyle activities and the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. It builds on previous findings from the Baltimore Experience Corps Trial, which showed that engaging older adults in volunteer work can enhance cognitive functions and promote healthier lifestyles. The study will assess whether these short-term benefits translate into long-term health improvements as participants age. By analyzing linked data from past participants, the research aims to uncover lasting impacts on cognitive health and overall well-being.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those who are cognitively intact and at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients who are already diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or other severe cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to strategies that significantly reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease and improve the quality of life for older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing cognitive health through community engagement, indicating that this approach may yield beneficial outcomes.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carlson, Michelle C — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Carlson, Michelle C
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.