Community-Based Memory Assessment Program
A free community-based assessment program to improve the detection of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias in underserved populations.
Summary
A free community-based memory assessment program developed in collaboration with the Healthier Black Elder’s Center (HBEC) to support the detection of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (AD/ADRDs) and increase engagement in AD/ADRD research. Program participants receive personalized feedback and recommendations to support brain health and everyday functioning and have the option to contribute their assessment data to a database designed to support research on cognitive aging and AD/ADRDs. All evaluations are conducted by graduate student clinicians under the supervision of licensed neuropsychologists.
Program Goals
Improve access to care and detection of AD/ADRDs
Increase engagement in AD/ADRD research
Provide training in culturally responsive assessment practices
Program Development Phases
Program Development
Build community relationships and conduct research to guide the design and development of the program.
Work with the HBEC Community Advisory Board (CAB) to develop program protocols and procedures based on community input and research.
Pilot Program
Pilot CAB-approved procedures with a small, representative group from the HBEC community.
Evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the program using both quantitative and qualitative methods and refine the program before broader implementation.
Implement Program
Implement the program through a phased rollout, gradually increasing the number of evaluations provided.
Monitor and evaluate program outcomes and use ongoing feedback and outcome data to support program improvement, sustainability, and expansion.
Needs and Barriers
Learning about current needs and barriers to cognitive evaluations amongst older adults in Michigan.
Study Lead: Dr. Anthony Robinson
Openness to Evaluation
Understanding how different psychological, health, and personality factors influence openness to cognitive evaluation.
Study Lead: Brenda Owe
Utility of Cognitive Measures
Identifying cognitive measures that are sensitive to cognitive decline in urban Michigan populations.
Study Lead: Dr. Anthony Robinson