Understanding resilience and social support in brain aging among American Indians

Resilience, cultural alignment, and social support in brain aging: the Strong Heart Study

['FUNDING_R01'] · HUNTINGTON MEDICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTES · NIH-11019327

This study is looking at how being resilient, connected to your culture, and having social support can help American Indian adults stay mentally healthy as they age, especially in the face of stress and conditions like Alzheimer's disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorHUNTINGTON MEDICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Pasadena, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11019327 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how resilience, cultural alignment, and social support impact brain aging and cognitive health in American Indian populations. It aims to understand the relationship between chronic stress and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's disease, focusing on how social support and cultural identity can help mitigate these risks. By utilizing data from the Strong Heart Study, which includes a diverse cohort of American Indian adults, the research will analyze factors that contribute to healthier aging despite adversity. Participants will be engaged in discussions about their experiences and the role of their cultural background in their health outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are American Indian adults who are experiencing or at risk for cognitive decline and related health issues.

Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as American Indian or those who are not experiencing significant stressors related to aging may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for promoting cognitive health and resilience in American Indian communities.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that cultural alignment and social support can positively influence health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Pasadena, 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: cardiovascular disorder, Cardiovascular Diseases

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.