One of the greatest challenges in Alzheimer’s prevention is that change often occurs slowly and subtly. Establishing a baseline and tracking key measures over time can help identify trends long before day-to-day life is affected.

This section contains the cognitive tests, self-assessments, brain health biomarkers, and research opportunities that can be used to monitor.

I am not currently using every test, assessment, biomarker, or imaging study listed here. Some I use regularly, some I have used in the past, and others are included simply because they may be useful for certain individuals or in specific circumstances.

For example, as of this writing, I have not yet undergone pTau217 testing, despite its growing importance as a blood-based Alzheimer’s biomarker. Likewise, some imaging studies and cognitive assessments may be appropriate for certain people but unnecessary for others.

My goal is not to suggest that everyone should pursue every available test. Rather, I want members to be aware of the options, understand what they measure, and decide—together with their healthcare providers—which tools make sense for their own situation.

As with most things in prevention, personalization matters. The table below is a summary with additional links the respective category cards following the table.

Category	What It Measures	My Recommendation
Cognitive Testing	Memory, attention, processing speed	Start with Retain Your Brain
Self-Assessments	Functional and at-home screening	Finger Tap, Ruler Drop, SAGE
Brain Biomarkers	Alzheimer’s-related blood markers	pTau217, GFAP, NfL
Brain Imaging	Structural and functional changes	MRI / NeuroQuant
Physical Function	Strength, balance, mobility	Grip strength, VO₂ Max
Clinical Trials	Research participation	Ongoing opportunities