Understanding barriers to identifying dementia early in underserved healthcare settings
Barriers to early identification of dementia in a safety net healthcare system
This study is looking at how older adults, especially those from different backgrounds, can have a hard time recognizing memory problems and getting help for dementia, so we can find better ways to help them get diagnosed and treated sooner.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10913589 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the challenges faced by older adults in recognizing and seeking help for cognitive impairment and dementia, particularly in safety net healthcare systems. It aims to identify both patient beliefs and systemic barriers that contribute to delays in diagnosis, especially among racial and ethnic minorities and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. The study will use a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys and analysis of electronic health records to assess how health literacy and self-reported memory symptoms influence the likelihood of receiving timely evaluations for dementia. By understanding these barriers, the research seeks to improve early identification and treatment pathways for dementia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults receiving healthcare in safety net systems, particularly those from racial/ethnic minority backgrounds or lower socioeconomic status.
Not a fit: Patients who are already diagnosed with dementia or those who do not access safety net healthcare services may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early diagnosis and treatment of dementia, enhancing the quality of care for affected individuals.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing barriers to healthcare access can significantly improve early diagnosis and treatment outcomes for various conditions, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- University of Southern California — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Joe, Elizabeth Bartelt — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Joe, Elizabeth Bartelt
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.