Understanding Why Dementia Diagnosis is Delayed for Black Older Adults
Racial Disparities in Delayed Dementia Diagnosis: Structural Determinants and Validation of Timeliness Measures
This work looks at why Black older adults often receive a dementia diagnosis later than others, using existing health information to find solutions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11178686 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that Alzheimer's disease and related dementias are growing, especially in Black communities, where diagnosis often comes later. This project uses existing survey and Medicare claims data to understand the factors contributing to these delays. We want to see if looking at where people live and how healthcare is distributed in those areas helps explain why some diagnoses are delayed. By understanding these structural issues, we hope to find better ways to ensure everyone gets a timely diagnosis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research focuses on understanding health data related to Black older adults who have received a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
Not a fit: Patients not represented in Medicare claims data or those without a dementia diagnosis would not directly benefit from this specific data analysis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies and policies that help Black older adults receive earlier and more equitable dementia diagnoses, improving their care and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While previous work has looked at individual risk factors for delayed diagnosis, this project uses a novel approach to validate timeliness measures and examine broader structural factors.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences — Newark, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kim, Min Hee — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Kim, Min Hee
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.