Vanderbilt University

This study tested whether a program focused on positive emotions could help prevent anhedonia (loss of interest or pleasure) in children aged 8-12 whose mothers have depression. The 73 participants completed a computerized task while their brain activity was measured. The goal wa…

This study tested whether a socially assistive robot could reduce apathy in older adults with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease living in long-term care. 142 participants were randomly assigned to either usual activities or usual activities plus robot-led sessions.…

This study tested whether using augmented reality (AR) headsets could help older adults feel less lonely. Sixteen older adults and their family members used AR to do activities together over 4 weeks. Researchers measured how easy and enjoyable the technology was to use, and wheth…

This study tested a program called EMT en Español that helps Spanish-speaking toddlers (ages 30-36 months) with language delays. The program involves both therapists and caregivers working together to improve the child's communication and school readiness. 81 families participate…

This study tested a program called Shed-MEDS that helps safely reduce or stop unnecessary or harmful medications for people with dementia living in assisted living facilities. 18 residents took part, and the program worked with them and their families to decide which medicines co…

This study looked at why some people develop colorectal polyps (growths that can turn into cancer) and others do not. Researchers collected blood, urine, saliva, and tissue samples from over 8,000 adults getting a colonoscopy. They also gathered information about lifestyle and he…

This study looked at whether extra tutoring in reading and math can help first-graders who are behind. 385 students were split into groups that got reading help, math help, both, or their usual school program. The tutoring lasted 15 weeks, and researchers tested the kids before a…

This study tested a family navigator program and a smartphone app to help low-resourced families of young children (ages 3-5) with autism find and access services. 52 families took part. The program aimed to improve parents' knowledge, skills, and confidence in getting support fo…

This study looked at why some older adults (age 50 and up) maintain flu-fighting antibodies longer after getting the flu vaccine. Researchers enrolled 510 people and measured their immune response over time. The goal was to understand factors that help maintain protection, not to…

This study followed 432 people who had ACL knee surgery to learn why some develop arthritis years later. Researchers checked knee X-rays and function at 2 and 10 years after surgery. The goal is to find which injuries, repairs, or patient traits raise arthritis risk. No new treat…

This study tested a new program that helps people living in affordable housing plan their future medical care in a way that is sensitive to past trauma. Thirty adults who did not have an advance directive took part. The goal was to see if the program helped them understand and pa…