Join the Fight against Alzheimer’s Disease

For more information, please call the ADRC at 412-692-2700 and ask for Melita to learn more about the Alzheimer's Outreach Program and community events.

To request a memory evaluation please complete the Online Application ›

We will be in touch with you by telephone once we have reviewed the completed application. If you have further questions regarding participating in research, or the application, please contact the ADRC at 412-692-2700

In this video, Jean shares her experience with the University of Pittsburgh ADRC.

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The mission of the Alzheimer’s Outreach Program is to increase the awareness of Alzheimer’s disease in African American and underserved communities.

The Alzheimer’s Outreach Program is the community engagement entity of the University of Pittsburgh ADRC.

The Alzheimer’s Outreach Program has been a part of the local community since 1992.

The Alzheimer’s Outreach Program provides education and counseling for participants and families, referrals to community resources, support groups for caregivers, and opportunities to participate in research studies.

For more information about the Alzheimer’s Outreach Program and our community events, call the ADRC at 412-692-2700 and ask for Melita.

What is Alzheimer’s disease?

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia in older people. It is a medical condition that affects memory and thinking. It is important to note that this condition is not a part of normal aging.

 

What we know so far

  • Nearly 6 million Americans are living with AD.
  • The number of people with AD is expected to double by 2050.
  • AD is more common among African Americans than among White Americans.
  • Genetic and environmental factors may work differently to cause AD in African Americans, but the exact reason for the disease’s prevalence among African Americans is unclear.

Click here for information about participating in research at the ADRC.

How you can help

Information is shared by research volunteers 60 years or older:

  • who do not have trouble with their memory or thinking. They are called healthy volunteers.
  • who are noticing mild changes in their memory or thinking.

Researchers at the ADRC compare the information shared by these volunteers with information shared by people who have Alzheimer’s disease.

Working together to fight Alzheimer’s disease

By participating, you will contribute to the understanding of the normal aging process and how it differs from the process of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Becoming a volunteer

What are the benefits of becoming a volunteer with the University of Pittsburgh Alzheimer’s Outreach Program?

  • You will receive an annual medical evaluation and tests of memory and thinking at no cost.
  • You will receive a $200.00 cash card for participating in the initial study visit and a $25 pre-paid gift card for participating in annual visits.
  • You will have opportunities to talk with health professionals and to participate in additional research studies.
  • With your consent, we can share the results of your evaluations with your primary care physician.

What are the requirements of becoming a volunteer with the University of Pittsburgh Alzheimer’s Outreach Program?

  • All ADRC participants are required to bring a study partner to the visit. This is someone who knows the participant well, such as a spouse, adult child or friend who sees the participant very often. The study partner will also be interviewed to provide information about the participant’s health status, memory and behavior.
  • Study partners will receive a $100.00 cash card for participating in the initial study visit and a $25 pre-paid gift card for participating in annual visits.

What else do I need to know about becoming a volunteer with the University of Pittsburgh Alzheimer’s Outreach Program?

  • An appointment at the ADRC involves interviews with several members of our research team at UPMC Montefiore hospital in Oakland, and will last about 4 hours.
  • The visit will include a series of interviews, examinations and tests to evaluate memory and other cognitive functions.
  • Blood will be drawn for research purposes.
  • If you have already had a brain scan (PET scan, MRI or CT) please bring it to the first appointment. If not, we will arrange a scan as part of your evaluation.
  • Parking is provided during your annual visits.
  • Your information will be kept confidential.