Understanding how social connections affect Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

Social Networks in Alzheimer Disease 2.0.

['FUNDING_R37'] · TRUSTEES OF INDIANA UNIVERSITY · NIH-11047330

This study is looking at how staying socially connected can help older adults with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease, and it aims to find out if having a variety of social interactions can support brain health and slow down cognitive decline.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R37']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorTRUSTEES OF INDIANA UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BLOOMINGTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11047330 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of social connectedness on individuals with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. By following a group of older adults over several years, the study collects detailed information about their social networks, cognitive abilities, and brain health through interviews and various tests. The goal is to uncover how having diverse social interactions may help protect against cognitive decline and improve overall brain function. Participants will contribute to a better understanding of the relationship between social engagement and cognitive health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing mild cognitive impairment or early-stage Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without any cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing cognitive health in individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the cognitive benefits of social engagement, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.

Where this research is happening

BLOOMINGTON, 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 →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia

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.