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Help Improve Health for Yourself and Others

As we age, we know how much our health matters. Doctors and scientists are working hard to find better ways to prevent, treat and manage diseases. But they can’t do it without people like you.

By joining a health study or clinical trial, you can help improve health care — for yourself, your family and future generations.


Why Your Involvement Matters

Everyone is different, especially when it comes to how our bodies respond to treatments. That’s why research needs people of all ages, backgrounds and health conditions.

When older adults take part in research, it helps doctors:

  • Understand how treatments work for people your age
  • Make care safer and more effective
  • Create better options for future patients

What Is a Clinical Trial?

A clinical trial is a health study where researchers test:

  • New medicines
  • Medical devices
  • Lifestyle changes (like diet or exercise)

You might:

  • Try a new treatment
  • Fill out a survey
  • Have a health screening

Every study is different — and you’ll always know what to expect before joining.


Is It Safe?

Yes — your safety always comes first.

Before you decide to join, you’ll go through a process called informed consent. You’ll get all the facts, have time to ask questions, and can choose whether or not to participate.

Every study is reviewed by a team called an Institutional Review Board (IRB) to make sure:

  • The research is safe
  • Your rights and privacy are protected
  • You’re treated with respect and care

Doctors and researchers monitor your health throughout the study.


Who Can Join?

Studies may need:

  • Healthy volunteers
  • People with certain conditions like diabetes, arthritis, heart disease or memory changes

You don't need to be sick to help. Whatever your health situation, there could be a study that fits you.


Make a Difference — Today and Tomorrow

Joining a clinical trial or health study is a powerful way to give back. You can:

  • Help improve care for yourself and others
  • Contribute to medical discoveries
  • Leave a legacy for future generations

Your experience and voice matter. You can help shape the future of health.


Find more information on the process from the National Institute on Aging
Landon Center on Aging

University of Kansas Medical Center 
Landon Center on Aging
Mail Stop 1005
3901 Rainbow Boulevard 
Kansas City, KS 66160 
Fax: 913-945-7544