Using digital markers to detect cognitive decline in older adults
Official title: Life-Space and Activity Digital Markers for Detection of Cognitive Decline in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: The RAMS Study
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-11052512 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how digital tools can help spot early signs of memory problems in older adults, especially those at risk for Alzheimer's, by tracking their daily activities and movement patterns, so we can catch changes before they become serious and find ways to help.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $600,112 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG082251-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11052512 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are community-dwelling adults aged 65 and older, particularly those who may be at risk for cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those with established cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how digital technology can help identify early signs of cognitive decline in older adults, particularly those at risk for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. By using devices like GPS data loggers and wrist-worn actigraphy, the study aims to monitor real-life mobility and activity patterns. The goal is to develop practical markers that can signal changes in cognitive function before clinical symptoms appear, allowing for timely interventions. The study also considers the impact of social health factors, such as isolation and loneliness, on cognitive health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection of cognitive decline, allowing for interventions that may help maintain independence in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using digital markers for monitoring health, suggesting that this approach could be effective in detecting cognitive decline.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sargent, Lana — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Sargent, Lana
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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.