Using wearable sensors to help diagnose dementia with Lewy bodies earlier
Official title: Use of wearable sensors to improve the early diagnosis of DLB
Funded at Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res · NIH-10897052 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how using wearable sensors alongside regular check-ups can help doctors spot dementia with Lewy bodies earlier, especially since it can look a lot like Alzheimer's, and it's for anyone who wants to help improve the way we diagnose and treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2019 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $709,586 |
| NIH project number | 5R33AG064271-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10897052 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing early symptoms of dementia, particularly those who may be misdiagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced dementia or those who do not exhibit symptoms consistent with DLB or Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how wearable sensors can be combined with traditional assessments to improve the early diagnosis of dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), which often shares symptoms with Alzheimer's disease. The study will involve collecting data on cognitive, motor, sleep, and behavioral patterns from participants using these sensors and ecological momentary assessments. By comparing these profiles in individuals with DLB and Alzheimer's, the researchers aim to enhance diagnostic accuracy and reduce delays in treatment. An interdisciplinary team will work together to analyze the data and develop a robust research infrastructure.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses of DLB, allowing for timely interventions and better management of the condition.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using wearable technology for monitoring cognitive and behavioral health, suggesting that this approach could be effective for diagnosing DLB.
Where this research is happening
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Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tsuang, Debby Wen — Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res
- Study coordinator: Tsuang, Debby Wen
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.