The impact of midlife obesity on brain health and cognitive decline in older adults

Midlife Obesity, Neurovascular Senescence and Cognitive Decline

NIH-funded research University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-10885976

This study looks at how being overweight in middle age can impact brain health and memory as we get older, especially for people 65 and up, and it aims to find ways to help improve brain function through better lifestyle choices.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Oklahoma City, United States)
Project IDNIH-10885976 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how obesity during midlife affects the aging brain and contributes to cognitive decline and dementia in individuals aged 65 and older. The study focuses on understanding the relationship between obesity and neurovascular health, utilizing advanced imaging techniques and nutritional interventions. By training in various methodologies, including biostatistics and single-cell analysis, the researcher aims to develop effective strategies to mitigate age-related cognitive impairments. Patients may benefit from insights into how lifestyle changes can improve brain health as they age.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are experiencing cognitive decline or have concerns about their brain health.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have concerns related to cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective nutritional and lifestyle interventions that improve cognitive health in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using lifestyle interventions to improve cognitive outcomes in older adults, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Oklahoma 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.
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.