Investigating how lifestyle changes can protect brain health in older adults at risk of dementia
US POINTER Neuroimaging Ancillary Study
This study is looking at how a mix of exercise, healthy eating, brain games, and support can help older adults at risk for dementia keep their minds sharp, and it will compare those making these lifestyle changes to others who are just getting general health tips over two years.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11276896 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on the U.S. POINTER project, which aims to understand how a combination of exercise, diet, cognitive stimulation, and health coaching can improve cognitive health in older adults who are at risk for dementia. Participants will be divided into two groups: one receiving a structured lifestyle intervention with regular coaching and activities, and another receiving general health education. The study will track cognitive changes over two years to see how these lifestyle modifications impact brain health. Neuroimaging will also be used to explore the effects of these interventions on Alzheimer's-related brain changes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults, particularly those over 21, who are at increased risk for dementia due to factors like age or family history.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for dementia or who have already been diagnosed with advanced Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective lifestyle strategies that significantly reduce the risk of dementia in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Similar research, such as Finland's FINGER trial, has shown success in using lifestyle interventions to improve cognitive outcomes in at-risk populations.
Where this research is happening
Berkeley, United States
- University of California Berkeley — Berkeley, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Landau, Susan M — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Landau, Susan M
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.