Understanding Memory Changes and Alzheimer's Risk in Older African Americans
Risk Factors for Future Cognitive Decline and Alzheimers Disease in Older African Americans
This project looks at why Alzheimer's disease is more common in older African Americans by exploring how health, lifestyle, environment, and genes affect brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers the State Univ of Nj Newark NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11091600 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Alzheimer's disease affects older African Americans at a higher rate, and we want to understand why this health difference exists. Our past work suggests that things like aerobic fitness and sleep quality play a role in memory decline and Alzheimer's. However, we also know that genetics and social factors can change how these lifestyle habits affect brain health. To learn more, we are inviting older African Americans to participate in follow-up visits to help us uncover these complex connections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are cognitively healthy African Americans aged 60 and above, particularly those aged 80 and above for annual testing, living in the greater Newark, NJ area.
Not a fit: Patients who do not fit the age or ethnic criteria, or who are already experiencing significant cognitive decline, may not directly benefit from participating in this specific observational study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could lead to better ways to prevent or slow down Alzheimer's disease by identifying specific risk factors and understanding how they interact in older African Americans.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has identified some health and lifestyle factors related to cognitive decline, and this project builds upon those findings by focusing specifically on older African Americans and complex interactions.
Where this research is happening
Newark, United States
- Rutgers the State Univ of Nj Newark — Newark, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gluck, Mark a — Rutgers the State Univ of Nj Newark
- Study coordinator: Gluck, Mark a
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.