Understanding brain activity patterns in older adults after ICU stays

EEG Signatures of ICU Delirium and Post-ICU ADRD

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11035245

This study is looking at how brain activity in older adults in the ICU can help us understand their risk of memory problems or dementia later on, and we hope to find patterns that can guide better care for these patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11035245 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how brain activity, measured through EEG, can reveal important information about delirium experienced by older adults in the ICU and their subsequent cognitive health. The study aims to identify specific EEG patterns that may predict cognitive decline or dementia following critical illness. By focusing on older patients, the research seeks to improve understanding of how ICU experiences affect long-term brain function. Participants may undergo EEG assessments to help establish these connections and contribute to better care strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who have experienced delirium during their ICU stay.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or those who have not experienced delirium during their ICU stay may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for predicting and managing cognitive decline in older adults after ICU stays.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using EEG to study cognitive impairments, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, 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 2026-06-13 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.