Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How can I participate in this study?

In this year of 2024, recruitment carries on. Indeed, we have an impressive waiting list of enthusiastic people, eager to participate. We are actively working to move the process along as quickly as possible, while ensuring that the quality and effectiveness of the process are maintained.

I have concerns for myself or for a loved one with regards to memory or I am worried about developing Alzheimer's disease. What should I do?

There are several memory clinics across Quebec. These are specialized clinics and you must have a consultation request from your family doctor in order to obtain an appointment. The first step is to speak with your family doctor, who has the qualifications necessary to perform certain screening tests. If both parties are in agreement, you may or may not request a consultation in a memory clinic.

Can I know the results of my cognitive evaluations done in the context of the study?

The majority of experimental results are not transmitted to research participants, for example, precise measurements of certain brain structures, or protein levels in the cerebrospinal fluid. However, if the research team discovers an 'incidental' result which may be harmful to your health and a medical follow-up is appropriate, it is our duty to inform you (for example, the detection of a mass during an MRI, high blood cholesterol levels, etc.). In addition, a systematic review of memory test results is carried out by our team and when the results decline, or are below expectations, we inform the participants and together discuss whether it would be appropriate to provide a referral to a memory clinic.

How is the collection of cerebrospinal fluid via lumbar puncture carried out in a research context?

We invite you to watch this short video which explains the technique developed at the StoP-AD Centre.

Where should I turn to if I wish to become a brain donor?

At the Douglas Institute, we have Canada’s largest active brain bank. To make a donation, you must be part of a research study and specific consent must be signed. If you are part of our cohort, you can contact our team and we will support you throughout the process. You can also visit the brain bank website:

Where should I turn to if I wish to make a donation?

On the Douglas Foundation website, click on "Make a Donation". Within minutes of your donation, you will receive a tax receipt by email. The best way to proceed is to send them another email afterwards to specify that this donation is intended for the StoP-AD Centre, since there is no place in the online form to indicate this.

You can also simply call, provide your credit card number, and specify directly on the phone that the donation is for the StoP-AD Centre. You may provide your email or postal address in order to obtain the tax receipt. Foundation telephone number: 514-762-3003