1. Why should I participate in research?

Not only is participating in research a great way to give back to the community and to help advance science, it can also be a good way to answer some questions you may have about your health. Most of our research programs offer memory evaluations free of cost to our participants. While these evaluations are not meant to replace clinical assessments you would have at your doctor’s office, they can be helpful in determining whether you need to seek further medical assistance.

2. Who is eligible?

Persons ages 50-90 in good health are candidates for our research. To determine if you meet eligibility requirements, please call our study coordinators at (310) 206-7392 or (310) 206-1319.

3. If I sign up for a study, how many times will I have to come to UCLA?

Our different studies vary in terms of time-commitment. Certain studies require only 2-3 visits, while others span a longer time frame requiring multiple visits to UCLA. If you have certain scheduling limitations, we will do our best to accommodate your requests.

4. Will I get paid to participate in research?

Yes, you will be compensated once you complete the study or decide to stop participating. Compensation amounts range from $99 to $300 depending on the study. Parking permits are also arranged for all research-related visits.

5. What are you studying?

The UCLA Longevity Center Research Laboratory (LCRL) conducts cutting edge research on a variety of explorative treatments and diagnostic tools related to memory loss. Focused on the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, the LCRL aims to find ways to diagnose signs of early memory impairment in hopes of inhibiting the progression of degenerative illnesses.

6. What is the difference between your studies?

Two types of studies are conducted at the LCRL. We offer Brain Imaging studies designed to improve diagnostic technologies for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. These studies focus on the diagnosis of memory problems. We also conduct Clinical Trials. These projects research the efficacy of supplements in improving memory or preventing further memory loss.

7. Do you give out study results?

Yes and No. While you will be given your memory assessment, MRI and lab results, other results are not distributed to participants. In particular, due to their experimental nature, PET scan or genetic testing results are not given out. Please be assured, however, that we will alert you if we discover anything that may require medical attention.

8. Will my data and personal information be kept confidential?

All information obtained from you during the course of the study will be kept strictly confidential and kept in a locked storage area to prevent access by unauthorized personnel.