Investigating how sleep patterns in couples affect cognitive function in older adults at risk for Alzheimer's disease

Dyadic Sleep, Biobehavioral Rhythms and Cognitive Function in Older Adults: Implications for Alzheimer’s Disease

NIH-funded research University of Utah · NIH-11078660

This study is looking at how sleep problems in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and their partners might affect their thinking skills and memory, so if you or your partner have MCI, you can help us understand how your sleep habits influence each other and your overall brain health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Utah NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Salt Lake City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11078660 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the relationship between sleep disturbances and cognitive decline in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and their partners. It focuses on how the sleep patterns of one partner can influence the other, recognizing that sleep is often a shared experience. By using actigraphy to monitor sleep and biobehavioral rhythms, the study aims to understand the impact of these factors on cognitive health and the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Participants will be involved in daily assessments to track changes over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 21 and above who have mild cognitive impairment or mild Alzheimer's disease, along with their partners.

Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive impairment or those without a partner may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions for managing sleep disturbances, potentially slowing cognitive decline in older adults at risk for Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the impact of sleep on cognitive function, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

Salt Lake City, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementia
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.