Deborah Barnes
About Deborah Barnes
I am an epidemiologist with broad expertise in research methodology related to factors that may protect against the development or progression of cognitive impairment and dementia in older adults. My research focuses on: 1) identifying modifiable risk factors for cognitive impairment and dementia in older adults; 2) developing risk prediction models to identify high-risk individuals and to forecast the potential impact of risk reduction strategies; and 3) developing and testing interventions to delay onset and slow progression of symptoms. My research has identified numerous risk factors for cognitive impairment and dementia, including physical inactivity, low literacy, depressive symptoms, diabetes, hypertension, low social connection, traumatic brain injury, and Agent Orange exposure. I also published the first estimates suggesting that up to 30% of dementia cases could potentially be prevented by addressing these modifiable and treatable risk factors. I developed one of the first tools to predict risk of developing dementia in older adults and am currently performing a large, embedded pragmatic trial of eRADAR, which uses electronic health record data to identify older adults with undiagnosed dementia. Finally, I have developed a unique integrative, group movement program called Preventing Loss of Independence through Exercise (PLIÉ) that has been shown to significantly improve quality of life for people living with cognitive impairment or dementia. I am collaborating with Together Senior Health, Inc., to commercialize an online version of PLIÉ called Moving Together.