Understanding how diverse daily activities affect brain health in older adults

Aging, activity diversity, and brain health

NIH-funded research Brandeis University · NIH-10866996

This study is looking at how everyday activities can help keep your brain healthy and your mood positive as you get older, especially for those concerned about Alzheimer's disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrandeis University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Waltham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10866996 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between daily life activities and brain health in older adults, focusing on how these activities influence cognitive function and emotional well-being. By utilizing behavioral assessments, neuroimaging techniques, and naturalistic observations, the study aims to uncover the neurobiological mechanisms that connect activity participation with cognitive resilience, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's disease. The research will explore how engaging in a variety of activities may help maintain cognitive abilities and emotional health as people age.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those aged 21 and above, who are interested in maintaining or improving their cognitive and emotional health.

Not a fit: Patients who are not in the age range of 21 and above or those who do not have concerns related to cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to strategies that enhance cognitive health and emotional well-being in older adults, potentially delaying the onset or progression of Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: While there is a strong theoretical basis for the connections being explored, this research represents a novel approach that has not been rigorously tested in humans before.

Where this research is happening

Waltham, 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.