Understanding subtle cognitive decline in older adults
Official title: Heterogeneity of subtle cognitive decline phenotypes in community-dwelling older adults
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11080062 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at the small memory and thinking challenges that older adults might face before they show clear signs of memory problems, to better understand how things like heart health, exercise, and feelings of sadness can affect their brain health, with the goal of finding ways to help them stay sharp.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $257,006 |
| NIH project number | 3RF1AG082726-01S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080062 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are community-dwelling older adults who are experiencing subtle cognitive difficulties but do not yet meet the criteria for mild cognitive impairment or dementia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or dementia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the different types of subtle cognitive difficulties experienced by older adults who do not yet show signs of mild cognitive impairment or dementia. By analyzing extensive data from long-term studies, the researchers aim to identify various cognitive decline patterns and their connections to factors like vascular health, physical activity, and biomarkers related to Alzheimer's disease. The study also explores how mid- and late-life depressive symptoms may affect cognitive and biological outcomes in this population, ultimately aiming to inform personalized intervention strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and early identification of cognitive decline, allowing for timely interventions that may improve quality of life for older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding cognitive decline through similar longitudinal studies, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thomas, Kelsey R — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Thomas, Kelsey R
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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.