Chooza Moon, PhD, RN, Assistant Professor

Donor: Barbara and Richard Csomay Faculty Research Award

Project: A Pilot for the Healthy Aging and HeaRT (H-ART) study

Funding Year: 2017 - 2018

Project Description:

  • Background:  Myocardial infarction (MI) is one of the most prevalent forms of heart disease and a risk factor for cognitive impairment and dementia.  Shared risk factors including atherosclerosis, lifestyle, and neurohormonal changes in MI may explain the mechanism behind this heart-brain connection. However, the exact mechanism of how MI could change the brain structure and cognition is still unknown.  Evidence is needed to identify early cognitive and brain changes to better manage cognitive symptoms and brain alterations before dementia develops in individuals with MI. 
  • Objectives: The objective of this proposal is to test the feasibility of data collection of neuroimaging and sleep measurements, and to determine whether a comprehensive neuropsychological battery can be used in older adults with and without MI.
  • Population: 10 community-dwelling older adults with and without MI.
  • Approach: This is a cross-sectional observational study. We collect data including neuroimaging, questionnaires, neuropsychological testing, home sleep data collection, dim light melatonin onset, and acceptability assessment.
  • Targeted Outcomes: Targeted outcomes are feasibility regarding recruitment and retention, and acceptability of the protocol.

For more information, contact Dr. Moon