Memory Decline

The purpose of this placebo-controlled trial is to compare the effects of 24-weeks supplementation with LPC-DHA and TAG-DHA on cerebrospinal fluid and blood DHA levels, as well as biomarkers of central neurodegenerative and neurotrophic activity, in elderly adults experiencing early signs of cognitive/memory decline including those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Extant evidence supports our overarching hypothesis that LPC-DHA supplementation will be more effective than TAG-DHA for increasing central (CSF) DHA levels and improving biomarker profiles in elderly adults. To assess this hypothesis, the following aims are proposed: SPECIFIC AIM 1: To compare the effects of LPC-DHA and TAG-DHA supplementation on peripheral and CSF DHA levels in elderly adults experiencing early signs of cognitive/memory decline. SPECIFIC AIM 2: To compare the effects of LPC-DHA and TAG-DHA supplementation on neurotrophic and neurodegenerative biomarkers. Secondary Aim: To investigate whether changes in CSF DHA levels correlate with changes in objective measures of executive functioning and episodic memory performance.

Women, older adults, individuals from communities of color, particularly Black and Latino persons, and individuals with lower socioeconomic status are historically underrepresented in clinical research. This is true across a range of clinical areas but no more so than in Alzheimer's Disease Research. The purpose of this study is to assess whether offering small $25 financial incentives can increase enrollment of diverse community members to the Alzheimer's Prevention Trial (APT) Webstudy, a memory concerns registry meant to accelerate clinical trials, relative to non-monetary incentives such as a reusable grocery bag. To do this we will test in-person recruitment efforts at community events and locations, such as Northgate Gonzalez Market locations and local food bank events. We also aim to compare the relative cost of recruiting an additional person to the APT Webstudy.