CAN-PROTECT

What is this Study about?

CAN-PROTECT is a Canada-wide online study that explores how lifestyle/background factors link to risk and resilience in brain aging, health, quality of life, cognition, behaviour, and function as we age. CAN-PROTECT also seeks to explore the health and stresses experienced by caregivers of persons with dementia. Together, these findings may provide valuable information about the aging brain and help inform preventative interventions that seek to improve caregiver and patient outcomes. CAN-PROTECT is led by the University of Calgary, in partnership with the University of Exeter. The researchers from both universities will analyze the data and jointly publish the results.

What Will Happen in This Study?

You will be asked to complete questionnaires about your health and lifestyle. Questionnaires are done on your own time and don’t have to be completed in one sitting. Even if you have 10 minutes here and there you can still participate - just pause the assessment until next time (total commitment ~3-7 hours per year). If you are a family/friend caregiver or your job is caring for persons with dementia you will be asked about caregiver stress and supports. Each year you will also complete some cognitive tests, which are similar to the brain training games available in the study.

Who is Eligible to Participate in this Study?

- Age 18 years or older

- Reside in Canada

- Have access to a computer/touchscreen device

- Can provide informed consent

- Do not have a diagnosis of dementia

- Additionally, we are enrolling participants who have previously or currently care for persons with dementia for caregiver-specific assessments

- Ability to speak English

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