Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 27, 2026
Measuring Biophysical and Psychological Stress Levels Following Visitation to Three Locations with Differing Levels of Nature
Published on: June 19, 2019
Protocol for assessing urban-rural environmental stress disparities in ADRD through ecological momentary assessment
Sarah A Greenwell1, Laurel S Curran1, Chasie E Poe1,2
1Department of Health & Wellness Design, Indiana University School of Public Health, Bloomington, Indiana, USA.
Introduction:
Consistent exposure to environmental stressors increases the risk of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD). Little is known about the timing, location, and nature of these stressors. We outline the protocol for an ongoing study using a novel ecological momentary assessment app to evaluate environmental stressors in urban and rural adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
Methods:
We assess cognitive status at baseline and follow-up appointments for 2 years. During a 2-week stress-reporting period, participants self-report environmental stressors. We monitor physiological data via Smartwatch. The app collects geospatial data, which we analyze via spatiotemporal regression models.
Results:
The study will take 3 years to complete.
Discussion:
This study will advance knowledge of when, where, and what stressors occur among older adults and will underscore targets for intervention at individual and neighborhood levels to prevent progression from MCI to ADRD and reduce urban-rural disparities in older adults.
