Understanding how and when Alzheimer's disease is diagnosed

Predictors and consequences of the timing and accuracy of clinical dementia diagnosis

NIH-funded research Rush University Medical Center · NIH-11044997

This study looks at why some older adults with Alzheimer's and related dementias are diagnosed late or not at all, and it hopes to find ways to improve how doctors identify these conditions so that patients can get the right care at the right time.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRush University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11044997 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the factors that influence the timing and accuracy of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) diagnoses in healthcare settings. It aims to identify why many older adults are diagnosed late or not at all, despite meeting the criteria for dementia. By examining the consequences of both underdiagnosis and early diagnosis, the study seeks to provide insights that could improve healthcare practices and patient outcomes. The findings may help clarify whether early diagnosis leads to better health management or if it could potentially cause harm.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults who exhibit symptoms of dementia or have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing symptoms of dementia or who have already received a timely and accurate diagnosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic practices for Alzheimer's disease, resulting in better patient care and management.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that addressing diagnostic disparities in dementia can lead to significant improvements in patient outcomes, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's Disease
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.