Memory Problems II: Course and Predictors of Outcome
Research study for people ages 55-90, with and without memory complaints. Includes medical evaluation by physicians who specialize in memory disorders, and neuropsychological testing that assesses memory & intellectual functions. Medical evaluation and neuropsychological testing with close monitoring will take place annually for 7 years. At the initial visit only, the following procedures will also be performed: an MRI scan to evaluate structures in the brain involved with memory; two PET scans to evaluate function in brain regions involved with memory, and a protein produced by the brain thought to be involved in memory loss; and a spinal tap. Participants are reimbursed $150 for both PET scans, $50 for the MRI scan, and $50 for the spinal tap.
Participants may also be compensated for time and travel. For more information, please call (212) 543-5025.
Studies of Cognition, Perception and Aging
We are seeking individuals to participate in our research studies on visual cognition, perception and aging. These studies involve computer tasks with shapes and words as well as paper-and-pencil tasks to assess memory and language. Individuals will receive $20/hour for participating. You may be eligible to participate if you are age 60 – 80 and have no history of stroke, epilepsy or glaucoma. For more information, please call (212) 342-1729.
Metformin in Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment
This study, funded by the Institute for the Study of Aging, is a clinical trial of metformin, a medication effective in the prevention and treatment of diabetes. The basis for this study is that persons with diabetes, and persons at risk of diabetes, could have a higher risk of Alzheimer's disease. Thus, we seek to test this medication vs. a similar pill without effects (placebo) in persons with mild cognitive impairment, a condition in which persons have memory complaints and detectable memory deficits on testing. To be eligible for this study persons must be overweight or obese, over the age of 55 years, and have memory complaints. The study will last 12 months. For further information, please contact Dr. Jose Luchsinger at 212-305-4730 or jal94@columbia.edu
Antidepressant Treatment Studies for Combined Depression and Memory Complaints
We are currently conducting medication treatment studies for individuals (age 50+) experiencing both depression and mild memory and/or concentration difficulties. The studies offer both neuropsychological testing for memory and psychiatric evaluation of mood prior to and during the period of treatment. Treatment in our clinic is provided for eligible individuals at no cost for at least 6 months. For further information, please contact Karine Cunqueiro at 212-543-5067.
PET Scan Study for People with Parkinson's disease, Dementia with Lewy Body disease, Alzheimer's disease, and Healthy Volunteers
We are seeking English-speaking men and women age 50 to 95 who have either Parkinson's disease, Dementia with Lewy Body disease, Alzheimer's disease, or are healthy without memory problems. Participants will receive a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan that uses a radioactive tracer to bind to a dopaminergic transporter. This tracer may serve as an agent for in vivo imaging of dopaminergic degeneration in patients with different neurodegenerative diseases. Standard clinical procedures will be done including memory testing, blood work, and an MRI scan. The study consists of two visits, and participants will receive compensation. For futher information, please contact Linda Sanders at 212-342-0522 or Oksana Tatarina at 212-305-1987.
Brain Imaging Study of Smell Function in Healthy Individuals and Patients with Memory Complaints
This study uses brain-imaging procedures to understand how aging and Alzheimer's disease affect smell function. Healthy individuals and patients with memory complaints or with Alzheimer's disease receive a Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) scan while smelling common odors (e.g., coffee). Similar to standard MRI, which looks at brain structures, fMRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to look at how the brain is functioning. This study will help us to understand the changes that occur in brain activity with age and disease progression. For further information, please contact Matt Tabert, Ph.D., at 212-543-5046.
Additional Information
Brain Donation Program "Give the Gift of Knowledge"
Brain donation allows valuable information to be obtained regarding normal aging and diseases that affect memory. This information may be useful towards the goal of developing more effective treatment strategies. If you or a family member wish to learn more about this program, please call Arlene Lawton, RN at 212-305-9086.
