The Memory & Aging Project
Healthy individuals and those with more than usual memory loss participate in various tests that measure different aspects of functioning. Inclusion in the study is based on strict research criteria and is determined by a physician. Participation is strictly voluntary and free of any costs. We hope that all those who volunteer will remain involved long-term. We encourage brain donations from each of our volunteers after their death, because examination of brain tissue is essential for better understanding of the disease and the aging process.
The standard set of tests requires approximately three visits within a one- to two-month period. One or two tests usually are scheduled per visit, each testing session lasting about two to four hours. Most participants will repeat this standard set of tests every 12 months with a brief follow-up phone call every six months.
Testing includes:
- Interview of family member or close friend.
- Interview and physical examination of the research volunteer.
- Blood sample to study risk factors for dementia.
- Measurement of the research volunteer's thinking and memory functions.
- Review of previous test results, such as CT and MRI scans of the head, and blood tests.
Additional tests, such as computerized testing of memory processing and neural imaging, have been incorporated into the project, but not all volunteers will participate in these.
Increasing emphasis is placed on evaluating drug therapies for memory disorders as well as on identifying genetic factors which may be important for the development of Alzheimer's disease.
