Natives Engaged in Alzheimer’s Research (NEAR) Research Project 2 (RP2): ‘IKE Kupuna (Elder Wisdom)

Status: Current

Grant Start: 08/01/2021

Grant End: 04/30/2026

‘IKE Kupuna is a Hula-based lifestyle intervention that seeks to improve vascular health and cognitive function in Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander elders at risk of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD). The project has partnered with multiple community organizations to spread the traditional teachings and language of the islands through Hula and other lifestyle changes. This project is incorporating traditional teachings and language of the Hawaiian Islands through Hula and other lifestyle changes as its primary intervention method.

Helpful Links

Partners

  • Kapolei Community Development Corporation ​(RP2 IKE 'KUPUNA, CBO 1)​​
  • Hui No Ke Ola Pona (RP2 IKE 'KUPUNA CBO 2)
  • Kokua Kalihi Valley Comprehensive Family Services (RP2 'IKE KUPUNA CBO 3)
  • Kula No Na Po'e Hawai'i​ (RP2 'IKE KUPUNA CBO 4)
  • Project Vision Hawai`i ('IKE Kupuna CBO 5) ​
  • University of Hawai`i (RP2 'IKE KUPUNA)
  • University of Miami (Multi-PI, RP2 'IKE KUPUNA, RP3 CATNAP)

Funding Sponsors

  • Federal - National Institutes of Health
  • National Institute on Aging (NIA)

Communities Involved

  • Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Communities

Study Locations

  • Hawai'i

Study Type

  • Group randomized trial
  • Intervention
  • Community based participatory research
  • Mixed methods

Study Characteristics

  • Ages 50 plus

IREACH Programs

Team Member(s)

Heath Research Initiatives

  • Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander

Focus Areas

  • Alzheimer's disease
  • Well-being

Associated Projects