FAQ
Who should I contact if I have concerns about my memory or my family member’s memory?
Where is the MADRC located and where do I park?
Who should I contact for more information about the MADRC?
Who can participate in MADRC research studies?
Which MADRC research studies are looking for participants?
Does the MADRC offer genetic testing?
How can I participate in research at your center?
Will my doctor get a copy of any test results if I participate in a MADRC research study?
How can I learn more about the brain autopsy program?
General
Who should I contact if I have concerns about my memory or my family member’s memory?
If you or a family member are concerned about memory changes, please talk to your primary care physician. Your PCP may refer you to a specialist, such as a neurologist or geriatric physician for further evaluation. The Cognitive Disorders Clinic is a specialty clinic within the U-M Department of Neurology that offers a complete evaluation for people with memory problems and provides ongoing care. Appointments are made by physician referral. If you are interested in a directory of diagnostic centers by county, contact the local chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association at 800-272-3900.
Where is the MADRC located and where do I park?
Research visits are scheduled at the University of Michigan Hospital. Once your visit has been scheduled , a confirmation letter, parking voucher and hospital map will be mailed to you. For further information, please contact the MADRC Study Coordinator, Aviva Meyers, at 734-764-8445.
Who should I contact for more information about the MADRC?
Questions about the MADRC should be directed to Cassie Starback, Health Educator, at 734-936-8764.
Participating in Research
Who can participate in MADRC research studies?
If you are over the age of 55, with or without memory concerns, we encourage you to fill out a Participant Information Form to start the eligibility process. With your permission, a team of professionals may review your medical records to determine your eligibility. Most of our studies require you to bring a study partner (family member, neighbor, friend) to your research appointments.
Which MADRC research studies are looking for participants?
The MADRC is currently enrolling for brain imaging and observational studies. The brain imaging studies (PET scans, MRI, EEG) explore the sensitivity and accuracy of a particular imaging technique in the early detection of disease or in measuring brain changes over time. Observational studies measure naturally-occurring changes in health behavior and health status over time. The purpose of these MADRC studies is to increase our understanding about the cause of and treatments for diseases that impair memory. Each study protocol varies in procedures and time commitment. For further information about our currently enrolling studies, please contact the MADRC Study Coordinators, Aviva Meyers at 734-764-8445 or Arijit Bhaumik at 734-936-8281.
Does the MADRC offer genetic testing?
Anyone who participates in our U-M Memory and Aging Project can choose to give a blood sample to assess for Apolipoprotein (ApoE) gene type. This testing is done for research purposes only – the results will be kept confidential and will not be provided to study participants.
How can I participate in research at your center?
If you are interested in participating in any MADRC studies, please complete the Participant Information Form and mail it to our Study Coordinator, Aviva Meyers, at 300 North Ingalls, Room 3D16/NIB, Ann Arbor, MI 48109. Please call 734-764-8445 if you have any questions about the form or the recruitment process.
Will my doctor get a copy of any test results if I participate in a MADRC research study?
Results from memory testing and/or brain imaging can be shared with your doctor if you complete a Release of Information form, which will be provided by the study coordinator. All tests are performed for research purposes only, but some may have relevance to your clinical care. Blood samples obtained for genetic testing are destroyed and results are not released to study participants.
Brain Autopsy
How can I learn more about the brain autopsy program?
Brain autopsy services are offered to participants in the U-M Memory and Aging Project, our largest and longest running observational study. A separate consent for brain autopsy is obtained once enrolled in this study.
