About us
Within Clinical Geriatrics, we work on several projects addressing various aspects of elderly care and health. Additionally, we focus on the diagnosis and treatment of dementia diseases. These projects in geriatrics are of great importance in promoting health and well-being among older individuals through interdisciplinary approaches and longitudinal studies. By bridging knowledge gaps and shaping the future of elderly care, we hope to create a more sustainable and effective healthcare system for elderly populations.
In the Uppsala Longitudinal Study of Adult Men (ULSAM), we focus on using plasma p-tau as a biomarker for Alzheimer's pathology and predictor of dementia. Additionally, we study falls and fractures in elderly men. Through a longitudinal study of an elderly cohort, we hope to contribute to an increased understanding of disease development and geriatric outcomes.
In genetic studies of dementia diseases, we focus on identifying genetic risk factors for hereditary forms of dementia through mutation analyses and functional studies. By studying DNA from patients and controls, we aim to increase knowledge of disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets for dementia diseases.
Next, the Geriatric Lifestyle and Mental Health Research (GLiMHeR) group, led by Associate Professor Mattias Damberg, investigates the lifestyle and mental health of the elderly. One of the projects within this research group, DepActive, focuses on reducing depression among the elderly through telephone-based behavioral activation, which has shown promising results in improving access to psychological treatment and reducing the negative consequences of depression.
Another important research line is the role of herpesviruses in the basic disease mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease. The project investigates the relationship between herpesvirus infection and Alzheimer's disease, focusing on early disease processes and potential treatment options.
Bacteria in the blood: a threat to the brain health of the elderly? is another study in the field. Through epidemiological investigations and analysis of population materials, we seek to understand infection-related mechanisms in dementia development to identify potential treatment targets for preventing dementia.
Finally, Within physical activity in health promotion and care, our aim is to promote motor function and independence among the elderly. By studying the motor function and physical activity of the elderly from various perspectives, we hope to develop effective rehabilitation methods to enhance quality of life and well-being.
Our research projects:
- Biomarkers in predicting dementia, falls and fractures in a cohort of very old men
- Fysisk aktivitet i hälsopromotion och vård
- Genetic studies of dementia disorders
- Geriatric Lifestyle and Mental Health Research (GLiMHeR)
Cohort studies: