Interventions for Cognitive Decline in Pathological Aging: A Community-Driven Approach

There is a growing need for clinical trials that promote positive cognitive and functional outcomes in older adults, their families, and communities, as the global population is aging. Research that specifically addresses risk factors and interventions for cognitive and functional decline in older adults in the community is warranted. There is also a lack of literature demonstrating partnerships with community-based organizations and non-governmental organizations to scale these evidence-based interventions for at risk populations.

Current research highlights the role of modifiable risk factors such as socialization, physical activity, and nutrition on cognitive decline; however, the mechanisms by which health-promoting behaviors impact pathological aging are not well established. There is also a growing appreciation that the underrepresentation of specific older adult populations limits the generalizability of the extant literature. The goal of this special article collection is to explore community-engaged research in aging.

We invite all forms of research manuscripts, including observational and intervention studies and reviews. Manuscripts should highlight risk factors and interventions for cognitive decline in diverse, community-based cohorts. We especially welcome studies that employ community-engaged participatory research approaches and emphasize community-based, family-focused strategies to prevent and treat cognitive decline in diverse, older adults. Our hope is that this special article collection will include a variety of research papers that will help us to survey recent advances, innovations, and future directions in community-driven research in cognitive aging.