Understanding visual hallucinations in older adults with neurodegenerative diseases
Vision and hallucinations in older adults
This study is looking at how vision problems might lead to hallucinations in older adults, especially those with Alzheimer's or Parkinson's, to find ways to help reduce these scary experiences by improving their eyesight.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11043318 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between visual impairment and hallucinations in older adults, particularly those with Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. By analyzing data from national health surveys, the study aims to identify how age-related eye diseases, like macular degeneration, influence the occurrence of hallucinations. The goal is to explore potential preventive measures and treatments that could reduce hallucinations by addressing underlying visual issues. This approach seeks to improve the quality of life for older adults experiencing these distressing symptoms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease who are experiencing visual hallucinations.
Not a fit: Patients without neurodegenerative diseases or those not experiencing visual hallucinations may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and managing hallucinations in older adults, significantly improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically linking age-related eye diseases to hallucinations, the approach of addressing visual impairment to improve neurological outcomes is promising and has shown success in related fields.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hamedani, Ali G — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Hamedani, Ali G
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.