Understanding how aging affects emotional regulation
Official title: Neural and motivational mechanisms of age-related change in emotion regulation
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11259819 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our emotions change as we get older, especially for those over 65, and it wants to understand what helps older adults feel happier and how past experiences with depression might play a role.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2021 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $348,746 |
| NIH project number | 3R01AG070139-05S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11259819 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are healthy adults aged 65 and older, especially those with varying histories of depression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under 65 years of age or those with severe cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how emotional functioning changes as people age, particularly focusing on individuals over 65. It aims to identify the factors that contribute to positive emotional development in older adults and how a history of depression may influence these changes. The study employs a framework that examines the relationship between motivation and cognitive control in managing emotions, specifically looking at how these elements interact in older adults. By analyzing brain activity and connectivity, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind emotional regulation in aging.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance emotional well-being and coping strategies for older adults, particularly those with a history of depression.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding emotional regulation in aging, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: English, Tammy — Washington University
- Study coordinator: English, Tammy
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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.