Investigators:
Ehsan Adeli, Stanford University
Victor W. Henderson, Stanford University

MassAITC Cohort: Year 3 (AD/ADRD)

The Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) is an established protocol designed to assess lower extremity function and mobility in elderly populations. Traditionally used to predict health outcomes such as disability and mortality, SPPB’s relevance extends into cognitive impairment arenas, particularly Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD).

This project proposes the development of a mobile application that facilitates the remote and automated administration of the SPPB tests, enabling frequent, accurate, and non-invasive assessments at home. Our mobile application will guide users through each test, capture performance using the device’s camera, and employ computer vision technology to analyze movements and provide immediate scoring. Data collected from these tests will not only track the progression of physical abilities but also help predict cognitive decline by correlating physical performance with cognitive health markers.

By allowing continuous monitoring and early detection of subtle physical and cognitive changes, the application aims to support timely clinical interventions and adaptive care strategies, thereby enhancing personalized care for ADRD patients. The project leverages expertise from the Stanford Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center and integrates advanced analytics to transform how we approach ADRD monitoring and management.