FURI | Summer 2024

Understanding Stress Induced During Cognitive Testing by Analyzing Salivary α -Amylase In 65 And Older Population

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Nearly 6.5 million individuals, 65 and over are diagnosed with some form of neurodegenerative disease, and risk increases significantly as age increases. Damage that occurs from neurodegeneration can slowly affect cognition, presenting a critical need for early and routine testing. However, many older adults find cognitive testing stressful, resulting in test avoidance. Measuring test-related stress (measured via self-report and salivary α-amylase) across several tests will help identify which assessments could be administered regularly during routine medical visits, ensuring early detection of cognitive decline.

Student researcher

Brianna Branson

Biomedical engineering

Hometown: Tempe, Arizona, United States

Graduation date: Spring 2026