Investigating the links between heart health and Alzheimer's disease in older adults

Cognitive Impairment and Dementia, Vascular Brain Injury, and Atrial Myopathy: Implications for Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease-Related Dementias

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-10814076

This study is looking at how heart problems, especially in people over 85, might affect thinking and memory, and it aims to find easy ways to spot these issues early so we can better understand and help those at risk for dementia.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10814076 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how heart-related issues, specifically atrial myopathy, contribute to cognitive decline and dementia in older adults, particularly those over 85 years old. The study aims to identify non-invasive markers that can help detect the presence and progression of vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia. By examining the relationship between heart function and cognitive health, the research seeks to uncover risk factors that differ in the oldest-old population compared to younger age groups. Participants may undergo assessments related to heart health and cognitive function to help advance knowledge in this area.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 85 and above, particularly those with or at risk for cognitive impairment or dementia.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 85 years old or do not have any cognitive impairment or dementia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention strategies and treatments for Alzheimer's disease-related dementias in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between cardiovascular health and cognitive decline, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.