Normal Aging and Cognitive Decline

Participants who want to volunteer for research on healthy aging should first join the Brain Aging Network for Cognitive Health. Joining this program involves a single visit every 12 months and will enable you to get involved in other related research projects, like this study, if you’re interested.

Summary

Purpose of the Study

This is a longitudinal study to identify the cognitive mechanisms and neural structures that underlie the decline in executive functioning observed in normal aging.

Study Details

Inclusion Criteria: Volunteers between the ages 40–100 with minor or no memory problems involved in the Brain Aging Network for Cognitive Health

Exclusion Criteria: Significant memory problems, diagnosis of a neurodegenerative disease, major psychiatric disorder, abuse of drugs/alcohol, or metal in body/pacemaker

What to Expect

Testing: Computer-based tests measuring attention and reaction time, paper and pencil cognitive testing, and brain MRI

Frequency of Visits: 1 visit every 24 months longitudinally (3 hours of testing and 1-hour MRI scan)

Materials Needed Before Evaluation: None

Costs: No costs will be charged for any of the study procedures. Parking will be validated for the 1625 Owens Street Garage or 1630 Third Street Garage at the UCSF Mission Bay campus for all study visits. There is no monetary compensation for participation.

Contact Information

If you are interested in participating in this study or have any questions, please contact the study coordinator, ​Valentina Diaz, at [email protected] or 415.476.1820.