Investigating how depression affects cognitive decline in older African Americans
The role of depression in cognitive decline of oldest-old African Americans
This study is looking at how depression and inflammation might affect thinking skills in African Americans aged 85 and older who are not experiencing dementia, with the goal of finding ways to help reduce the risk of dementia in this group.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Herbert H. Lehman College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11064842 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the relationship between depression and cognitive decline in African Americans aged 85 and older, a group that is at a higher risk for dementia. The study will involve 192 non-demented community-dwelling participants and will explore how depression and chronic inflammation may influence cognitive changes over time. By examining these factors, the research aims to identify potential interventions that could mitigate dementia risk in this vulnerable population.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African Americans aged 85 and older who are not currently diagnosed with dementia.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 85 or those already diagnosed with dementia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing cognitive decline and dementia in older African Americans.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on the oldest-old African Americans, studies have shown that addressing depression can positively impact cognitive health in older adults.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Herbert H. Lehman College — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guerrero-Berroa, Elizabeth — Herbert H. Lehman College
- Study coordinator: Guerrero-Berroa, Elizabeth
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.