Understanding how balance, thinking, and movement are connected in older adults with Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Elucidating links between vestibular function, cognition, and sensorimotor behavior
Funded at University of Arizona · NIH-10888385 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how balance and thinking skills are connected in older adults with Alzheimer's disease to help find ways to prevent falls and keep them safe.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $139,320 |
| NIH project number | 5K01DC021147-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10888385 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease who are at risk of falls.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without cognitive impairments or those not diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between the vestibular system, which helps control balance, and cognitive function in older adults with Alzheimer's disease. It aims to identify how these factors contribute to the increased risk of falls in this population. By examining sensorimotor behaviors and cognitive abilities, the study seeks to develop targeted interventions to reduce fall risks. The research combines existing measures with innovative laboratory techniques to provide insights that could improve clinical practices.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective strategies for preventing falls in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the links between vestibular function and cognitive decline, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Arizona
Tucson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kobel, Megan — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Kobel, Megan
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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.