Understanding functional difficulties in middle-aged adults

Functional Impairment in Middle-Aged Adults

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10887403

This study is looking at why more middle-aged adults in the U.S. are having trouble with everyday activities, especially if they have health issues like diabetes or depression, and it invites participants to share their experiences to help find out what might be causing these challenges.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10887403 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the increasing prevalence of functional impairment among middle-aged adults in the U.S., focusing on their ability to perform daily activities. It aims to identify the risk factors contributing to these difficulties, particularly in the context of chronic conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and depression. By analyzing the health trajectories of this age group, the study seeks to understand how these impairments may lead to long-term health issues. Participants may be asked to share their experiences and health data to help uncover patterns and causes of functional decline.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are middle-aged adults aged 45-64 who are experiencing difficulties with daily activities.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 45-64 or those without any functional impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions and support for middle-aged adults facing functional impairments, enhancing their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a growing concern regarding functional impairments in middle-aged adults, but this specific approach to understanding trajectories and risk factors is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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 2026-06-15 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.