Brain Health
Brain health refers to the overall wellbeing of the brain, which is a vital organ that controls our thoughts, emotions, movements, and bodily functions. Maintaining good brain health is essential for maintaining cognitive function, memory, and mental well-being. The brain can be influenced by a range of factors, including lifestyle choices, genetics, and environmental factors. Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress are some of the key ways to promote brain health. Additionally, avoiding harmful substances such as drugs and alcohol, and protecting the brain from injury through the use of protective gear during sports and other physical activities are also important. By taking care of the brain through these measures, individuals can support their brain health and reduce the risk of developing cognitive impairment and other neurological conditions later in life.
Brain Health Studies
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Brain Health Study: MARK VCID
Click here to learn more about MARK VCID
With your help, we can learn what are the biological markers (or biomarkers) that can help distinguish healthy aging from dementia. We aim to enroll participants of diverse backgrounds living in the Houston area. Results from this study will provide recommendations for future clinical trials on dementia.
Is this study right for me?
We are inviting women and men who are:
- Aged 60 to 90 years
- Hispanic, Black/African American, or non-Hispanic White
- Currently living in the Houston area and able to attend study examinations
What is expected of me if I join the study?
The study comprises an initial visit and three yearly follow-up examinations. Each study visit will include:
- a blood draw
- clinical and health questionnaires
- tests of memory and thinking
- a brain scan
Will there be compensation?
You will receive compensation for your participation in this study.
Each visit is compensated with $100. You will receive up to $400 if you take part in all the four study visits.
Who will have access to my information?
Your information will be maintained in secure databases and kept private.
To learn more contact:
Heather Smith, MA, CCC-SLP, CBIS
Speech-Language Pathologist | Research Coordinator
Stroke Recovery Research
(713) 500-7909
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Brain Health Study: DIVERSE VCID
Click here to learn more about DIVERSE VCID Diverse VCID means researchers are looking for a diverse population to study: African American, Latino and Caucasian individuals. VCID stands for Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Dementia. This study will examine Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the brain.
Is this study right for me?
We are inviting men and women who are:
- Aged 65 and 90 years
- Have noticed a decline in their memory or thinking over the last 1-3 years
- African American, Hispanic/Latino, or non-Hispanic White
- Can attend 3 visits to a center near you over a 3–-4 year period (you have the choice to opt out of the study at any point)
- You are able to have an MRI (you cannot have any metal in your body)
What is expected of me if I join the study?
- Answer some questions about yourself
- Receive a medical examination
- Review your medical history and current care plan
- Complete a brain MRI and a blood draw
- Complete memory tests and thinking
Will there be compensation?
You will be reimbursed $50 for your time upon undergoing the screening MRI. If it is determined you are eligible to participate and complete the remaining baseline study procedures, you will be reimbursed an additional $100 for each visit. If you complete all visits and MRIs, you will receive a total of $450.
Who will have access to my information?
Your information will be maintained in secure databases and kept private.
To learn more contact:
Heather Smith, MA, CCC-SLP, CBIS
Speech-Language Pathologist | Research Coordinator
Stroke Recovery Research
(713) 500-7909