FMRI Abnormalities in Geriatric Depression, and Depressed and Non-Depressed MCI Elderly

Project Description Narrative:

As Baby Boomers age, the impact of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and geriatric mental health disorders on Wisconsinites will be enormous in the coming years. Currently, there is no cure for AD, and there is growing interest in the research community to identify and target prevention and treatment interventions to persons at highest risk for developing AD. Individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and geriatric depression comprise such a cohort. This project addresses directly the expansion of knowledge of these disorders through neuroscientific research to improve the health and quality of life of older Wisconsinites. The knowledge gained from this project will advance knowledge of the neurobiological mechanisms involved in these disabling illnesses. This, in turn, will provide new insights into ways to prevent development of AD, the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S.

This project will support neuroscience research that will not only provide insight into understanding the brain functioning in prodromal or pre-dementia states such as MCI and geriatric depression, but also improve the quality of life of older Wisconsin residents, delay or prevent nursing home placements, decrease caregiver distress, and decrease the direct and indirect costs associated with elder care.