Research Areas

Research Areas

Phase 1(2020 - 2022)

Phase 1(2020 - 2022)

Mechanism Research

Research Background

The rapid aging of the population result in the growing academic interest among researchers in studying the cognitive, psychosocial, and physical health of older adults.

In the older population, diseases such as dementia, depression, and frailty are closely connected and tend to co-occur, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of their interrelationships.

Therefore, advanced scientific and innovative research is required to integrate the exploration of disease mechanisms, translational research, and practical application of the relevant technologies.

Research Objectives and Contents

The first phase consists of three parts, conducting basic research on the key health issues in older adults—dementia, depression, and frailty—to understand the mechanisms of these conditions.

  • Part 1

    Establishment of a predictive model for the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia

    1. Investigation and analysis of factors related to the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia based on biomarkers and various health and environmental information

    2. Establishment of a predictive model using a machine learning analysis to predict the types, timing, and frequency of symptom manifestations

    3. Investigation and analysis of sequence and pattern of emotional expression among older adults living with dementia in long-term care facilities during the provision of care services

  • Part 2

    Development of diagnostic algorithms for depression in older adults

    1. Big data-based investigation of longitudinal and observational studies of depressive symptoms of older adults and its related factors (e.g., sleep, fatigue, restricted activity), development of a predictive algorithm of psychiatric disorder symptoms based on analyses of biomarkers and abnormal depression patterns

    2. Identification of needs for pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions for mental health issues in residential environments

    3. Development of an assessment tool for the digital literacy of older adults and identification of their unmet needs in health management

  • Part 3

    Identification of the biological and behavioral mechanism for frailty and its risk factors

    1. Evaluation of the underlying mechanisms and risk factors contributing to frailty and falls with a comprehensive approach

    2. Identification of unmet needs in health management for frail older adults with high risk of falls or Parkinson’s disease