What is Convoy Q?
Convoy Q is a research study also known as “Social Convoys, Cognitive Reserve and Resilience, and Risk for Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias.” This study will help researchers better understand the social support networks of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Nonbinary, and Queer (LGBTQ) adults, and how social support contributes to good mental health and successful aging.
This project is part of the Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health at the New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, an is supported by a grant from the National Institute on Aging.
What is RANN?
RANN is a parallel study of aging and cognitive reserve in the general population conducted by Dr. Stern at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Some of the Convoy Q participants are also part of RANN. This will allow us to compare LGBTQ+ with heterosexual, cisgender individuals. Convoy Q gathers detailed information about the social support network that will be added to the information already collected by the RANN team on their participants. This will allow us to better understand the role of social connectedness in successful aging for all.
Why is it important?
The goal of the study is to understand the role of social support in the development of cognitive reserve (good cognitive function) and resilience (good mental health and wellbeing) among LGBTQ and non-LGBTQ adults as they age across the lifespan. We hope that findings will inform the development of future interventions to promote successful aging among the LGBTQ community.
How does it work?
A member of our study staff will ask you to participate in three Zoom sessions. The sessions can be scheduled on the same day or a few days apart.
In the first session, you will complete a number of tasks to evaluate your cognitive functioning (memory, reasoning, and how you process information). This part will take 60-90 minutes to complete.
In the second, we will talk about the important people in your life and the social support you receive. This part will take about 45-60 minutes to complete.
In the third session, you’ll complete a survey with questions about your identity and background, experiences of stigma and stress, access to care and support services, mental health and wellbeing. This part will also include questions about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on your life. This part will take about 45-60 minutes to complete.
Where will the study take place?
This study currently takes place on Zoom. The team is located at the New York York State Psychiatric Institute - Columbia University, Department of Psychiatry at 722 West 168th Street Floor R3 Room 340 in Washington Heights.
Are there risks involved?
Our staff is trained to respond to any concerns you may have and provide you with support. You may experience discomfort when asked questions about experiences of stigma and discrimination or performing cognitive tasks that you may find challenging. You will always be able to decline to answer questions.
Will I be compensated for my time?
You will be compensated with a $100 gift card for your time if you complete all three sessions.
How do I participate?
If you are interested in participating, please click on the button below to take our brief eligibility survey.
Let’s chat.
Do you have more questions? We have answers! Give us a call to talk to a staff member who can give you more information about our study.
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Help us understand the social support networks of LGBTQ adults, and how social support contributes to good mental health and successful aging.
With your help, we can learn more about how social support enriches our mind and wellbeing.
A member of our study staff will ask you to participate in three private Zoom sessions.