Headlands Research Orlando offers cost-free memory assessments, clinical trials and hope to those affected by memory-related diseases.

As we age, it’s exceedingly common to begin to experience some form of memory loss.  Memory loss can be frustrating and terrifying for those going through it and arduous for caretakers, but there is hope within innovation. Headlands Research offers clinical trials in which qualifying patients can access investigational treatments that may slow or improve symptoms.

Individuals experiencing changes in memory, confusion, difficulty with focus or subtle shifts in behavior or language, and adults 50 and older—especially with a family history of Alzheimer’s or dementia—are encouraged to schedule an appointment with Headlands Research for a free memory assessment.

An assessment includes cognitive testing conducted by trained clinicians and a review of medical history and symptoms. Once completed, patients will have a chance to discuss the results and will be notified if the findings suggest they may be eligible to participate in one of Headland’s clinical trials.

This initial assessment can help even those who don’t qualify.

“Even if someone doesn’t qualify for a study, Headlands can still offer guidance,” says Dr. Uzma Khan, Headlands Research Orlando’s principal investigator. “This may include a summary of the assessment results, general recommendations for follow-up with their primary care provider or neurologist, and access to educational materials or caregiver support resources.”

Those who do qualify may move on to the screening process which can include lab tests, imaging and additional memory evaluations. If enrolled in a clinical trial, participants will receive study-related care, investigational medication and regular monitoring at no cost.

“All costs associated with the trial are covered by the sponsoring research organizations,” says Dr. Khan. “Participants are never billed, and insurance is not required to take part.”

Clinical trials are evaluated based on scientific merit, community need and the potential for meaningful impact.

“Our site works closely with sponsors and regulatory bodies to ensure the studies are safe, ethical and relevant to the populations we serve,” says Dr. Khan.

While outcomes of these investigational trials are not guaranteed, participation is never wasted. Each individual’s results and journey work together to create a roadmap for researchers to find breakthrough cures and treatments.

“Involvement in clinical trials advances research, helping future generations by contributing to the development of new therapies and understanding of the disease,” says Dr. Khan.

Although Headlands Research provides free memory screenings for individuals with general memory concerns, the clinical trials offered are focused on those with degenerative memory disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

In Alzheimer’s cases, as with many diseases, early intervention is best to ensure the treatment’s best possible outcome. The most promising stages of slowing or altering the course of Alzheimer’s come at three points.

The first is the preclinical stage, in which no symptoms exist, but biomarkers discovered with advanced testing can indicate the potential for disease. In this case, prevention-focused trials may help to prevent its development before damage can occur.

The second stage brings along mild cognitive impairment—subtle memory or cognitive changes that do not necessarily interfere with daily life. It’s during this stage that many clinical trials are based, hoping to intervene before more serious cognitive decline can occur.

Lastly, during the early/mild Alzheimer’s stage is when symptoms significantly begin to affect daily activities. Treatments at this stage are aimed at slowing the progression of the disease.

These early stages of Alzheimer’s and their corresponding interventions showcase the importance of early detection and highlight the potential of treatments to impact the disease before any significant or long-lasting damage occurs.

In addition to memory-related clinical trials, Headlands Research also conducts research on flu vaccines, cardiometabolic conditions, and studies with healthy participants in order to maximize their impact and address public health needs.

“Healthy volunteer studies play a key role in advancing vaccine development across age groups, while cardiometabolic trials focus on conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease—which may also influence cognitive health, though it is not the primary focus of these trials,” says Dr. Khan.

Clinical trials are an important step in crafting a greater understanding of diseases, vaccines, treatments and cures. They are a source of hope for some of which traditional treatments could not help and serve as a launching pad for wide-spread benefits for all who struggle.

“A large segment of the population is aging, with millions already affected by Alzheimer’s disease—a number expected to more than double over the next decade as incidence rates rise dramatically,” says Dr. Khan. “This growing burden impacts not only individuals, but also their families and communities. Unfortunately, there is still insufficient awareness and limited access to resources for early identification of memory loss risk. Ongoing research remains critical, with strong efforts focused on developing new treatments and improving early diagnosis—both of which have the potential to transform lives.”

Headlands Research Orlando
Orlando
(407) 705-3471
HeadlandsResearchOrlando.com