Investigating the link between heart function and cognitive performance in Alzheimer's disease

Cardiac Autonomic Function, Cognitive Performance, and Neurocognitive Outcomes

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-10867268

This study is looking at how heart health affects thinking and memory in people with Alzheimer's and similar conditions, using wearable devices to track heart activity in everyday life, with the hope of finding ways to help prevent or treat dementia.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10867268 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores how cardiac autonomic function, measured through heart rate variability and QT interval variability, relates to cognitive performance and neurocognitive outcomes in individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. By using advanced wearable technology to monitor heart function in real-world settings, the study aims to identify vascular risk factors that may contribute to cognitive decline. The findings could lead to better understanding and potential interventions for preventing or treating dementia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, or those with severe comorbid conditions that preclude participation, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing or managing Alzheimer's disease and related dementias by targeting cardiovascular health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in linking cardiovascular health with cognitive outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

WINSTON-SALEM, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer's disease and related dementia, Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia, Alzheimer's disease or a related disorder, Alzheimer's disease or related dementia

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.