Brain Health in Alzheimer's: An Online Training

Last updated: October 1, 2024
Sponsor: UT Dallas Center for BrainHealth
Overall Status: Active - Recruiting

Phase

N/A

Condition

Alzheimer's Disease

Dementia

Mild Cognitive Impairment

Treatment

N/A

Clinical Study ID

TX312863
IRB-22-586
  • Ages 45-85
  • All Genders
  • Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Study Summary

The purpose of this study is to increase our understanding of the effectiveness of an online program in impacting the brain health of caregivers and individuals with a recent diagnosis of Alzheimer's or other dementia or MCI with suspected Alzheimer's (hereinafter 'family dyads'). The training will provide concepts and action items to help families navigate challenges specific to the diagnosis. All research activities take place online.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Any English-speaking family unit (one of whom has a recent diagnosis of Alzheimer's or other dementia or MCI) may elect to participate in the study, regardless of gender, race, or ethnicity.
  • As testing and training are all online, individuals must have internet and device access and basic knowledge to participate online.

Exclusion

Exclusion Criteria:

  • Individuals who are not able to communicate in English and use it in daily life
  • Individuals with dementia who are unable to attend to online group discussions
  • Individuals who may have a hearing or vision issue that would hinder their ability to read and/or listen to training material
  • Individuals who do not have a spouse or family member who agrees to participate in the project for up to 24 weeks (6 months)
  • Individuals that have any of the following at onset of study, as determined by a self-report screening form: Individuals diagnosed with psychotic disorder or uncontrolled psychiatric disorder
  • History of a significant impact to the head or neck that required medical attention
  • Uncontrolled health issues (substance abuse, hypertension, hypo- or hyper-thyroidism
  • History of stroke, concussion, or brain injury that currently hinders you from functioning at your prior level.

Study Design

Total Participants: 200
Study Start date:
Estimated Completion Date:
December 31, 2024

Study Description

Over the study period, each family dyad will complete a set of assessment measures addressing quality of life, social engagement, emotional well-being, and problem solving. Participation lasts up to 6 months and involves a 7-week training program, online discussions, handouts, and assessments. Assessments will be completed every 2 months.

The seven-week training program consists of five-modules plus an introductory session and a wrap-up session. The 5 training modules address the following components: i) Purpose: continuing to invest in those activities that bring joy and compassion to those around you; ii) Acceptance: focusing on what you can change, not on what you cannot change; iii) Understanding: giving your family member the most generous interpretation possible to create openness and acceptance; iv) Support: playing an active role in keeping the people around you part of your life and v) Energy: finding small ways to reset your brain throughout the day so you can refuel mentally, physically and emotionally.

Family dyads will watch the videos then participate in online discussions about the content. Some groups will be for family dyads, some groups will be separate (one for care partners and one for people with the diagnosis).

Connect with a study center

  • Online Study Center

    Dallas, Texas 75235
    United States

    Active - Recruiting

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