Understanding the transition from normal aging to dementia

Clinical Core

NIH-funded research Wake Forest University Health Sciences · NIH-10874729

This study is looking at what affects how people move from normal aging to mild cognitive impairment and dementia, especially Alzheimer's, and it's for anyone interested in understanding their brain health as they get older.

Quick facts

Grant typeP30 center grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Winston-Salem, United States)
Project IDNIH-10874729 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on identifying the factors that influence the progression from normal aging to mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease. It involves a comprehensive approach that includes collecting data on vascular and metabolic health, as well as addressing health disparities among participants. The study has already enrolled over 580 participants, with plans to expand this cohort and introduce new biometric measures related to sleep, physical activity, and glucose metabolism. Participants undergo various evaluations, including MRI scans and specialized tests to better understand their cognitive health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults aged 21 and older who are cognitively normal or have mild cognitive impairment.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or other severe cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and early detection of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, potentially guiding preventive strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding the transitions to dementia using similar methodologies, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.

Where this research is happening

Winston-Salem, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.