Understanding how social factors affect dementia and finding ways to improve health outcomes

Identifying and Addressing Social Determinants of Health to Reduce the National Burden of and Inequities in Dementia

NIH-funded research Northeastern University · NIH-10597433

This study looks at how things like education and social status affect the chances of developing Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, with the hope of creating better health policies that help everyone, especially those who are most affected.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNortheastern University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10597433 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of social determinants of health, such as education and social mobility, on the prevalence and burden of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. By analyzing large datasets and employing quasi-experimental methods, the study aims to identify which social factors most significantly influence cognitive decline and dementia rates. The goal is to develop policies that can effectively address these root causes and reduce health inequities among affected populations. Patients may benefit from improved health policies and interventions tailored to their specific social circumstances.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults and communities disproportionately affected by social determinants of health related to dementia.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by dementia or do not have social factors influencing their health may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective policies that reduce the burden of dementia and improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing social determinants of health can lead to improved health outcomes, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.