Diversifying research staff and participants: A Spanish language adaptation of the interactive Physical and Cognitive Exercise System (iPACES)

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Project Summary/Abstract We are in support of Diversity Supplement grant funding for Ms. Llabias who is ideally suited to both contribute to the ongoing iPACES neuro-exergaming clinical trial for MCI, while also being mentored in research and entrepreneurial skills. We strongly support her candidacy for receipt of diversity supplement funding (parent grant: R44 AG071063) to enable her to join the iPACES team. The research plan includes employing Ms. Llambias part-time with iPACES while she continues her doctoral studies. Her reimbursement would match the maximum standard set by the zero-level NSRA annual stipend. Ms. Llambias would be mentored co-jointly by: 1) this writer, given that I am both an experienced clinical researcher/PI, as well as a female inventor, founder and CEO of iPACES; and also by: 2) Dr. Maria Victoria Erbella, one of our licensed iPACES neuropsychological evaluators, also bilingual in Spanish and a Latina neuropsychologist experienced in assessment with Hispanic patient populations. The focus of the mentored work would be on converting and piloting the current iPACES RCT protocol (both the neuropsychological assessment and neuro-exergame interface) from English to Spanish, so as to be able to enroll a more diverse sample, addressing the needs of underserved and under-researched Spanish speaking older adults in Hispanic and Latinx communities. Ms. Llambias would have the opportunity to meet with members of the iPACES team to learn more about their roles and career paths, and shadow various research and business activities. A few tangible goals include helping Ms. Llambias to conceive, write and submit a grant proposal as well as to cross-train in entrepreneurial skills through NIH webinar offerings as well as networked business meetings.