Using wearable sensors to help diagnose dementia with Lewy bodies earlier

Use of wearable sensors to improve the early diagnosis of DLB

NIH-funded research Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res · NIH-10897052

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 typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSeattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-10897052 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing early symptoms of dementia, particularly those who may be misdiagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced dementia or those who do not exhibit symptoms consistent with DLB or Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Seattle, 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 syndromeAlzheimer's DiseaseAlzheimer's disease and related dementiaAlzheimer's disease and related disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.