Ever wonder what it’s like to volunteer for a rehabilitation research study? Read on to get a better picture of how scientists engage participants in their research and what to expect when you join a study.
What is a rehabilitation research study?Rehabilitation research studies are designed to help people with neurological and physical conditions become as independent as possible in everyday activities, restore function and mobility, enhance memory and learning, and improve quality of life. |
How do I find and volunteer for a research study?First, check out the studies at Kessler Foundation that need volunteers. Once you find a study that interests you, complete the “Join a Study” form found on each study page. Then a member of our research recruitment team will reach out to discuss the study and determine whether you are qualified to participate. |
Which conditions are crucial to your investigations?Our scientists seek to improve memory and learning, mobility, and long-term outcomes, including employment, for people with neurological and physical disabilities including traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and autism. We also study the role of caregivers who assist individuals with disabilities with daily activities, and we help people return to the workplace after disabling illnesses or injuries. |
Where are the research studies held?We offer a number of tele-studies that can be completed from your home, while others may require you to visit one of two Foundation locations in East Hanover, NJ, or West Orange, NJ. In some cases, we may be able to travel to your home or provide reimbursement for travel to our offices. |
How long do research studies last?Some studies are completed in one day, while others may need volunteers to be available for follow up from six weeks to more than a year. |
Are you recruiting for a specific age group or ethnicity?To achieve results that help as many people as possible, participants of all ages and ethnicities are needed in our studies. |
I don’t have a disability. Can I join a study?Yes, absolutely! People without disabilities can serve as controls in research studies. Comparing the results between healthy volunteers and participants with disabling conditions helps researchers prove the efficacy of their interventions. |
What if I cannot complete my participation in a study?Participating in our research studies is completely voluntary, and if at any time anyone is uncomfortable or unable to continue the study, they are able to withdraw. |
Will I be compensated for my time?Most of our studies provide compensation to volunteers for participation. The amount paid varies for every study. Some studies reimburse participants for travel or cover Uber Health or Lyft Concierge rides. |
Why should I participate in a research study?Each individual has their own motive for participating, but volunteers are vital to the ongoing rehabilitation research at Kessler Foundation. Their assistance helps scientists identify new treatments and interventions that can change the lives of loved ones and others with disabilities and debilitating health conditions. These scientific advances are made possible when people like you volunteer for research. |
Learn More: In the podcast below, Kessler Foundation recruiters discuss how volunteers can take part in one of our research studies.
