Suzanne Schneider, Ph.D., Principle Investigator
Associate Professor
Department of Health, Exercise and Sports Sciences
Joseph R. Sadek, Ph.D., Co-Investigator
Neuropsychologist and Assistant Professor
VA New Mexico Health Care & UNM Department of Psychiatry

Study Title: A Feasibility Study of the Effect of Aerobic Exercise to Slow the Progression of Alzheimer’s Disease

Who can volunteer for this study?
• People who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or who are healthy.
• Persons with Alzheimer’s disease must be willing to complete a 3-month exercise program.

What is Dementia?
Dementia is an impairment of brain function, which can affect a person’s ability to think, to remember, to talk, and to complete even basic daily activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, in which nerve cells in the brain are damaged.  Because it is sometimes difficult to treat Alzheimer’s disease, we are seeking ways to prevent or slow the effects of the disease.

How much time is required?
The study requires a free overnight stay at the UNM Hospital for a blood draw and non-invasive diagnostic tests at the beginning and at the end of the study.  We will ask you to perform exercise on a stationary bicycle for three-months at home.  Equipment will be provided.  A study staff member will visit your home during the study to answer questions and to gather information on heart rate.

What will I be asked to do if I volunteer for this study?
You will be asked participant in a three-month exercise program in your own home using a stationary bicycle.  You will be asked to stay overnight at the UNM General Clinical Research Center, give some blood, and undergo cardiac and memory tests before and after the exercise program.

Will I be compensated for my participation?
Each person who stays overnight for testing can be compensated $100 for their time and effort.

How can I get involved?
Call Dr. Schneider’s office at 277-2658 to find out if you are eligible.