Understanding how older adults learn to trust and distrust others
Characterizing and modulating neurocognitive processes of learning to trust and distrust in aging
This study is looking at how getting older affects our ability to trust others, especially for older adults who might be facing memory challenges or are at risk for Alzheimer's, and it aims to find ways to help improve their decision-making skills in social situations.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11122181 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how aging affects the ability to make trust-related decisions, particularly in older adults who may be experiencing cognitive decline or are at risk for Alzheimer's disease. It aims to identify the cognitive processes and brain mechanisms involved in learning to trust or distrust social partners. By using innovative tasks designed to simulate real-life decision-making scenarios, the study will explore how these processes can be improved through targeted training. The ultimate goal is to develop interventions that help older adults avoid exploitation and enhance their decision-making skills.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above, particularly those with subjective cognitive decline or a family history of Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those without cognitive decline or a family history of Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help older adults make better trust-related decisions, reducing their vulnerability to fraud and exploitation.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding cognitive processes related to trust in aging, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ebner, Natalie C — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Ebner, Natalie C
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.