Establishment of a Bank of Biospecimens for Future Research on Age-related Cognitive Disorders

Up to 1000 patients, with or without diagnosed cognitive disorders, are asked to participate by providing the investigators with blood, urine and saliva specimens to be stored in a Bio Bank for future research. Patients will be asked to participate on a yearly basis for up to 5 to 10 years by providing the investigators with the above-mentioned specimens, and also having a physical exam and having some cognitive testing performed at the initial visit and yearly visits.

Examples of the types of research are: new methods for improving the diagnosis and treatment of age-related cognitive disorders, new areas of biology, new areas of biotechnology, and possibly genetic research. If you do not want your specimens used for any specific type of research, you may specify that on the consent form.

Inclusion criteria

• At least 60 years of age.
• Willing and able to complete all specimen donations and neuropsychological examinations.
• Individuals identified as having some form of cognitive impairment require a study partner with 1-2 times per week contact (can be in person and/or telephone), who will accompany them to study visits(s).

Exclusion criteria

• Presence of significant sensory deficits (e.g., visual or hearing), motor deficits (e.g., paralysis), or medical conditions that would preclude the completion of the neuropsychological or other study instruments.
• DMS-IV diagnosis of substance abuse disorder.
• Presence of a major medical or terminal illness that may affect the participation of the patient in the study.
• Known active malignancy, or history of malignancy within the last 5 years (other than basal cell carcinoma), severe organ failure, metabolic or hematologic disorders, or post-encephalitic syndrome.