Investigating how COVID-19 affects the well-being and cognition of older adults with dementia
Official title: The Effects of COVID-19 on the Well-being, Cognition and Mortality of Persons Living With Dementia
Funded at Rand Corporation · NIH-10978230 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the mental health and well-being of older adults with Alzheimer's and related dementias, especially those over 65, to help improve care for them during and after the pandemic.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rand Corporation NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Santa Monica, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $857,986 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG079230-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10978230 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals aged 65 and older who are living with dementia or are at risk of cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without any cognitive impairments may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the cognitive health, mortality rates, and overall well-being of individuals living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD). It aims to quantify how public health measures and social isolation during the pandemic have affected these individuals, particularly those over 65 years old. The study will utilize data from a large national survey to analyze trends in dementia prevalence and cognitive decline, focusing on various demographic subpopulations. By understanding these effects, the research seeks to inform better care strategies for older adults during and after the pandemic.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved care strategies and support systems for older adults living with dementia, enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that social isolation and health crises can significantly impact cognitive health in older adults, suggesting that this study's approach is both relevant and necessary.
Where this research is happening
-
Rand Corporation
Santa Monica, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hurd, Michael D — Rand Corporation
- Study coordinator: Hurd, Michael D
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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.