Study on How Social Isolation and Interaction Affect Dementia Risk and Brain Health in People with Subjective Cognitive Decline Aged 45 to 85

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how social isolation and social interaction affect the risk of dementia progression and brain function in people with Subjective Cognitive Decline SCD. The study aims to explore the link between social isolation, loneliness, and the development of Mild Cognitive Impairment MCI and Alzheimers Disease AD, as well as to understand how genetic factors like APOEb54 allele influence this progression. The research also focuses on creating a model to predict cognitive decline from SCD to MCI and AD and to confirm if social interaction protects cognitive function in SCD patients. The study involves observing groups of SCD participants with different levels of social isolation, measured by the Lubben Social Network Scale LSNS-6. Participants are categorized as socially isolated LSNS-6 612 or non-socially isolated LSNS-6 >12. Researchers will collect and analyze data on brain network connectivity, walking ability, and genetic markers like APOE genotyping. This observational study includes cohort follow-up over 3 to 5 years and uses various cognitive tests and imaging techniques. Participants will be assessed through cognitive tests such as MoCA, AVLT-H, and fMRI scans at enrollment and at 3- and 5-year intervals. Researchers will monitor the incidence of MCI and AD over about one year and evaluate changes in brain function and social interaction measures. The study includes questionnaires on loneliness, depression, and sleep quality, as well as dual-task walking tests to understand cognitive and physical abilities. Overall participation could last several years with regular assessments to track cognitive decline and brain health.

The Effects of Social Isolation and Social Interaction on the Risk of Dementia Progression and Brain Function in SCD (Subjective Cognitive Decline, SCD)