Speech Pattern Evaluation and Analysis for Knowledge of Alzheimer’s Disease
(SPEAK-AD)
The purpose of the SPEAK-AD study is to look for changes in speech as a way to measure cognition in people at increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). We will achieve this by inviting WRAP and ADRC participants to perform at-home speech tasks on an iPad with a study specific mobile application called TalkTracker. The mobile application will record the participants’ speech as they complete the tasks, so it can be analyzed by speech and language researchers.
It is important to investigate speech and language because these have shown associations with cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers. This study will clarify how speech may be affected by Alzheimer’s disease and may help us predict the likelihood that someone will develop dementia.
Study Commitment
- Annual at-home speech collection sessions for 3 years.
- Each year an 8-week at-home speech collection period will be completed.
- One, 30-minute at-home speech collection session will be completed weekly for 8 consecutive weeks.
- At the end of the 8-week at-home speech collection period, there will be a brief survey.
Speech collection sessions will take place remotely, in the comfort of your own home.- All participants will be provided with an iPad to complete study procedures.
- Internet access is not required for participation.
Participation Eligibility
- Currently enrolled in WRAP or ADRC.
- 40 – 80 years of age.
- Recently completed or will be completing routine WRAP or ADRC study visit.
- Have provided a blood sample to WRAP or ADRC.
Quick Links
Download the TalkTracker app
Click the link below to download the TalkTracker app! The app is designed to be used on an iPad device.
Need help?
This page contains helpful information about using the TalkTracker app and provides answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs)! Click the link below to get support.
Study Science
This page will provide more details into the “why” behind the SPEAK-AD study! Click the link below to learn more.
TalkTracker is an app developed by the Cognitive-Communication in Aging and Neurogenic Disorders Lab (CCANDL) and UW-Madison IT team. For more information on CCANDL, please follow this link: https://ccandl.csd.wisc.edu/
If you have any questions or concerns about the TalkTracker app or SPEAK-AD study, please email us at speakad.ccandl@wisc.edu or call us at (608)262-6904.
