Understanding how care coordination affects older adults with Alzheimer's and multiple health issues

Identifying Hidden Relational Processes that Fragment Care for Older Adults with ADRD and Multimorbidity: A Social Network Analysis Approach

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10882887

This study looks at how older adults with Alzheimer's and other related dementias, who also have other health issues, experience challenges in getting the care they need, especially when their social situations make things harder; it aims to find better ways for doctors and healthcare providers to work together to improve their treatment and support.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10882887 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the challenges faced by older adults with Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) who also have multiple health conditions. It focuses on how fragmented care impacts these patients, particularly those affected by social determinants of health. By using social network analysis and electronic health record data, the research aims to evaluate the relationships among healthcare providers and how these relationships influence patient care and outcomes. The goal is to identify ways to improve care coordination and reduce barriers to effective treatment for these vulnerable populations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and over who are living with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias and have multiple health conditions.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have Alzheimer's disease or related dementias may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved care coordination for older adults with ADRD, enhancing their overall health outcomes and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that improving care coordination can significantly enhance health outcomes for older adults, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

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.
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.