Abstract
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.