Linking neuroscience and social work: the association between social factors
and neuropathology in later-life 


   Note: An Official Proposal has not been Submitted to NACC.


   Lead Investigator:    Takashi Amano
   Institution      :    Washington University in St. Louis
   E-Mail           :    ta460@rutgers.edu
   Proposal ID      :    942



   Proposal Description:
   Evidence from neuroscience has been contributing to practical and scientific development of other disciplines. Although neuroscience has made considerable contributions to social work, especially in conceptual and therapeutic approaches to interpersonal practice, the direct application of neuroscience in social work research is minimal (Farmer, 2009 Matto et al., 2014). A rich knowledge base exists in the neuroscience literature concerning community-dwelling dementia sufferers, but social work researchers have scarcely approached using these data. To begin to address this gap, our project focuses on the interaction between social factors and neuropathology in later life.                                                                              This project includes two separate studies. The first study aims to examine the association between living arrangement and neuropathology. It has been suggested that environmental factors can be protective against neuropathology because they contribute to building cognitive reserve. However, it has not been clear whether social environment may slow the depletion of cognitive reserve. Guided by cognitive reserve hypothesis, this current study tests to what extent the depletion in quantified cognitive reserve over time can be explained by living arrangement of the person.                                                  The second study aims to examine how neuropathology influences subsequent social environment. Placement in long-term care facilities may be one possible consequence of having dementia. Avoiding premature permanent placement and supporting clients rights to self-determination, especially in regard to the age-in-place movement, is an important component of gerontological social work.  However, factors contributing to these placements are not entirely clear. This study aims to examine moderating effects of a family history of dementia and functional dependency on the association between neuropathology and probab