The New Jersey Down Syndrome Aging Study

Older woman with Down syndrome smiling

The New Jersey Down Syndrome Aging Study aims to better understand healthy aging and resilience to Alzheimer’s disease in adults with Down syndrome. 

Who can participate in this study?

  • Adults with Down syndrome who are 20 or older. 
  • Adults who live in New Jersey or nearby areas.
  • Participants must be accompanied by a study partner (family member or caregiver who 
    knows them well).

Who cannot participate in this study?

  • Individuals without Down syndrome.
  • Participants younger than 20.
  • Participants without an available study partner.

Where does this study take place?

Rutgers University Krieger Klein Alzheimer’s Research Center in New Brunswick, New Jersey.

What activities are involved in this study?

  • Completing thinking and memory tasks and answer questions about your health and daily life.
  • Your study partner will answer questions about your health and daily activities.
  • With your permission, the team may take photos or video recordings for research or educational purposes. This is optional and not required to participate.
  • Optionally providing a blood sample for Alzheimer’s-related biomarker testing (such as amyloid and tau) and completing brain imaging and physical exams.

What is the expected time commitment of this study?

  • Each study visit will last approximately 2 to 3 hours. You may have one or two study visits.
  • The study partner will answer questions for approximately 1 to 2 hours.

What languages does this study support?

English, Spanish and Portuguese

Is compensation provided?

Yes

If you are interested in participating or have any questions about the New Jersey Down Syndrome Aging Study, please visit the study website or contact the study team at downsyndrome@rutgers.edu.

IRB ID: Pro2025002094

Principal investigator
Luciana Mascarenhas Fonseca, PhD
Publish Date