Comprehensive Assessment of Neurodegeneration and Dementia (COMPASS-ND)

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The University of Alberta’s Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry are seeking volunteers to participate in a research study to learn more about who is at risk of developing neurodegenerative conditions, how early decline can be detected, and what tests are most effective at detecting these conditions.

COMPASS-ND is a Canada-wide research study to learn more neurodegeneration related to aging. It will compare the effects of moderate intensity treadmill exercise to high intensity treadmill exercise on the signs and symptoms of Parkinson disease.

Who is eligible to participate in the study?

People diagnosed with Parkinson disease
- Who are between the ages of 50-90
- Who have up to 12 years of education

What is required of the participants?

Be able to travel to the University of Alberta for study visits
Be able and willing to participate in study visits for 3 months and followed annually thereafter
Be able and willing to undergo an MRI of the brain
Be able and willing to complete assessments of your hearing, vision, smell, walking, memory, thinking, daily functioning, and behaviour
Receive a physical examination (including blood tests, urine collection, cheek swab, and saliva sample)
Bring someone who knows you well (called a study partner) to your visits who will answer questions about your health, memory, thinking, and behaviour