The Arlington study of healthy aging: a multidisciplinary community cohort study of functional decline with age

The planet is experiencing an unprecedented growth in its human population aged 65 years and older, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive aging-centered biobehavioral data to guide public health interventions. The Arlington Study of Healthy Aging (ASHA) is a multidisciplinary community cohort study designed to investigate the biological, psychological, and social mechanisms underlying age-related functional decline. Here, we present the study's rationale, design, and methodological framework. Utilizing a comprehensive, multi-modal assessment strategy-including whole-body MRI, vascular function testing, venous blood biomarkers, cognitive and physical function evaluations, DEXA scans, and continuous remote monitoring of activity, sleep, blood pressure, and glucose-the study captures both quantitative and qualitative dimensions of aging across multiple organ systems (brain, heart, muscle, liver, adipose tissue). A central aim is to identify modifiable risk factors and protective mechanisms that influence aging trajectories. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, ASHA seeks to generate actionable insights to enhance longevity, independence, and quality of life among older adults. NCT06857877, 2024-09-24.