Understanding how older adults make decisions between exploring new options and sticking with familiar ones

Evaluating the Neurocomputational Mechanisms of Explore-Exploit Decision Making in Older Adults

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA · NIH-10769741

This study looks at how older adults decide between trying new things and sticking with what they already know, helping us understand how these choices change as we age, and it involves fun tasks that mimic everyday decisions.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (TUCSON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10769741 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how older adults make decisions that involve choosing between exploring new options and exploiting known ones, which is crucial for daily life choices. The study aims to develop a neurocomputational model to understand the brain mechanisms behind these decision-making strategies and how they change with age. By examining brain activity in specific areas, the research seeks to uncover the differences in decision-making processes between younger and older adults. Participants may engage in tasks that simulate real-life decision-making scenarios to provide insights into cognitive aging.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those aged 60 and above, who are interested in understanding their decision-making processes.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 60 years old or those with severe cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of decision-making in older adults, potentially informing interventions that enhance cognitive function and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding decision-making processes in younger populations, but this specific focus on older adults is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

TUCSON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.