Understanding how cognitive impairment affects walking recovery in older stroke survivors
Evaluating cognitive impairment as a moderator of locomotor learning in older adults post-stroke
This study looks at how memory and thinking skills affect older adults' ability to learn new ways of walking after a stroke, with the goal of finding better ways to help them recover and walk more easily.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10911381 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how cognitive impairment influences the ability of older adults to learn new walking patterns after experiencing a stroke. It focuses on the differences between explicit learning, which requires conscious effort and feedback, and implicit learning, which happens more automatically. By examining these learning processes, the study aims to improve rehabilitation strategies for gait dysfunction, a common issue faced by stroke survivors. The research will involve assessing older adults with chronic stroke to determine how their cognitive abilities affect their recovery and walking outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who have experienced a stroke and are dealing with cognitive impairment.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or those who have not experienced a stroke may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective rehabilitation programs tailored to the cognitive needs of older stroke survivors, enhancing their walking abilities and overall quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that cognitive factors significantly influence motor learning, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights, although the specific focus on PSCI in gait rehabilitation is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- University of Southern California — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leech, Kristan a. — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Leech, Kristan a.
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 below.