The Adult Longitudinal Study
The goal of the Adult Longitudinal Study is to increase our understanding of the connection between the brain and behavior in normal aging. It focuses on the relationship between cardiovascular health and cognition as we age. This study is open to adults from ages 38 to 71 who live in Rockland, Westchester, Orange, and Bergen Counties.
The Adult Longitudinal Study is currently funded by the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the NY State Office of Mental Health. Results from this study are shared with research scientists around the world to speed scientific discovery.
Study visits
This study takes place at the Nathan Kline Institute (NKI) in Orangeburg, NY, which is easily accessible by municipal bus routes. The visits are scheduled for the convenience of participants. Both weekday and weekend hours are available for scheduling.
There are three visits within the first year. The first visit is short and allows participants to learn more about the study and what is involved. The second is a day-long visit which includes a general medical evaluation, questionnaires, interviews about emotions and life experiences, cognitive tests (of memory, attention, and problem solving), and an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan. MRIs are non-invasive and use no radiation or dyes. The third visit is short and includes a cardiovascular fitness assessment.
Each year for three years following, there is one day-long and one short visit. The day-long visits are the same as the second visit and include a general medical evaluation, questionnaires, interviews about emotions and life experiences, cognitive tests (of memory, attention, and problem solving), and an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan. MRIs are non-invasive and use no radiation or dyes. The short visits are the same as the third visit and include a cardiovascular fitness assessment.
Participants’ results
Participants will receive a copy of their blood work results and their MRI report if they wish. Our clinical research team is available to discuss results from other study procedures and provide personalized feedback upon request.
Confidentiality
The participant’s confidential health information is protected by a Certificate of Confidentiality provided by the US Government. Scientific results are shared with research scientists and will not include any personal identifying information.
Payment
Participants will receive a total of $305 for completing the first three visits, $135 for each additional day-long visit, and $85 for each additional short visit. In addition, lunch will be provided on full-day visits. Transportation costs are included in the total payment of the study.
CURRENT STUDIES
Rockland Sample II: Community Lifespan Study
COMPLETED STUDIES
The Adult Longitudinal Study
The Rockland Sample Pilot Study
If you are interested in participating in the Initiative, please call (845) 398-2183 or fill out a contact form here.