Caring for a family member with dementia can be rewarding, but it can also be emotionally challenging. Many caregivers experience stress, anxiety, depression, and other forms of distress. ACT for Caregivers is an online, self-guided research study designed to help family caregivers of individuals living with dementia or significant memory loss become more flexible in responding to caregiving challenges and reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression.
What is this study about?
Researchers at Utah State University are studying ACT for Caregivers, an online program based on a program called ACT Guide for Family Caregivers of Individuals with Dementia. The program teaches practical skills to help caregivers respond more effectively to difficult thoughts and emotions while staying connected to what matters most to them. Researchers will evaluate whether participation in the program improves emotional well-being and reduces caregiver distress.
What is involved?
Participants will:
- Be randomly assigned to either begin the program immediately or join a waitlist group that receives access later.
- Complete three to four online surveys about their experiences and well-being (approximately 20-30 minutes each).
- Participate in a six-session online, self-guided ACT for Caregivers program (approximately 30-40 minutes per session).
Participation takes approximately 6 hours over 12 weeks for treatment participants or 7 hours over 18 weeks for waitlist participants.
Participants may receive Amazon gift cards for completing study activities, with compensation up to $90 for treatment participants and up to $140 for waitlist participants.
All study activities are completed remotely.
Who can participate?
You are eligible to participate if you:
- Are 18 years of age or older.
- Are a family caregiver for a person living with dementia or significant memory loss that affects everyday life.
- Are experiencing distress related to their caregiving responsibilities.
- Can read and write in English.
- Live in the United States.
- Have access to a computer, smartphone, or tablet with internet access.
- Have access to a landline or cellular telephone.
- Interested in an online mental health program.
Study Site
| State | City | Site Name | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Utah State University | Dr. Beth Fauth |
Study Funder/Sponsor
This study is funded by the National Institute on Aging and is sponsored by the University of Minnesota.
Contact Information
For study questions or to volunteer, please contact:
Principal Investigator: Dr. Beth Fauth
Utah State University IRB#15924
Email: [email protected]
If you’re interested, you can complete an Eligibility Screener by visiting: https://usu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5cZOzYgLhDJY6fs
