Understanding how beliefs and spirituality affect anticoagulation use in older adults with atrial fibrillation

Association of Health Belief Variables, Religiosity, and Spirituality with AC Use in Older Adults with Atrial Fibrillation

NIH-funded research Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-11063568

This study is looking at why some older adults with atrial fibrillation don’t use blood thinners that can help prevent strokes, focusing on their health beliefs and spiritual views, so we can find ways to encourage more people to take these important medications.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Worcester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11063568 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the factors influencing the use of anticoagulation therapy among older adults with atrial fibrillation (AF), particularly focusing on health beliefs, religiosity, and spirituality. The study aims to identify barriers that prevent eligible patients from using effective stroke prevention treatments. By examining a diverse population over the age of 65, the research seeks to develop strategies to improve adherence to anticoagulation therapy and reduce the risk of stroke and related complications. The project builds on an existing cohort and utilizes electronic health records to analyze prescribing behaviors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and over who have been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have atrial fibrillation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved anticoagulation therapy adherence, reducing the incidence of strokes and enhancing the quality of life for older adults with atrial fibrillation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in addressing health disparities in anticoagulation therapy adherence, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful impact.

Where this research is happening

Worcester, 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.