Center for Healthy Aging Research

The OSU Center for Healthy Aging Research conducts scientific research and uses the results to inform policy, create programs and develop strategies to meet the needs of older individuals, their families and society.

The LIFE Registry supports the Center's goals by assisting in the recruitment of volunteers aged 50 and over for research. Center staff matches Registry volunteers with appropriate CHAR faculty members and their studies.

Who is eligible to volunteer?

Any adult age 50 or older who lives in Oregon is welcome to volunteer for the LIFE Registry. In order to understand adult development and healthy aging, we are interested in men and women of any race/ethnicity, religion, physical capability or social position. People who are taking medications are welcome to volunteer for the registry.

How to volunteer for the LIFE Registry

Complete and submit the Online Volunteer Registration Form. Make sure to click the submit button at the bottom right hand side of the page when you are finished filling out the registration form.

What kind of research is being done?

The Center conducts research in four core areas. Find out more in our Research Cores.

View past CHAR studies (pdf).

How long is a volunteer required to participate in the studies?

Studies vary in length. Some studies can be done in less than an hour. Some studies may last for several months or longer.

Where are the studies done?

Depending on the study and the research questions being addressed, studies may take place in different OSU buildings, community locations, in home settings, over the phone or online.

Are volunteers paid?

Volunteers are not paid to be listed in the LIFE Registry. Certain studies may pay for volunteers’ participation or mileage to travel to the study locations or other expenses. In these cases, agreements are made between volunteers and the researchers involved.

Risks and benefits

The only risk for LIFE Registry volunteers is that confidentiality could be breached. However, this risk is minimal. Confidential Registry data is stored in locked offices and in locked filing cabinets and computers that are secure and protected by passwords.

By participating in the LIFE Registry, volunteers may help future generations while learning about selves. Volunteers can choose studies that are interesting to them. Many volunteers do find it helpful to discuss their situations and experiences with researchers and others.

Rights and responsibilities

Volunteering for the LIFE Registry does not obligate volunteers to participate in Center studies. Volunteers may refuse to participate in any study, withdraw from a study or request that no further contact about healthy aging research is made. In addition, volunteers are not required to answer any question that causes discomfort.

Researcher access to the LIFE Registry

CHAR faculty wishing to access the LIFE Registry should complete the faculty agreement form (docx) and email it to the contacts listed on the form.

For Further Information

E-Mail: healthyaging@oregonstate.edu