Caregivers TSCAN: Smartphone-based Cognitive Emotion Regulation Training for Unpaid Primary Caregivers of Persons Living with Dementia

This study is evaluating smartphone-based data collection and emotion regulation training for effectiveness in reducing stress and improving emotional well-being in unpaid primary caregivers of people living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD). Data collected will include psychological measures and heart-rate variability. Some volunteers will also be asked to complete training related to one of two techniques for emotional regulation.

What is this study about?

The study examines smartphone-based data collection and emotional regulation techniques for their effectiveness in impacting health behavior.

What is involved?

Participants will:

  • Complete questionnaires and brief emotional well-being assessments using their smartphone
  • Wear a chest band that measures heart-rate variability during portions of the study
  • Participate in follow-up assessments at two weeks, four weeks, and three months
  • Some volunteers will also be asked to complete seven brief smartphone-based training sessions over one week

All study activities are completed remotely.

Who can participate?

People 18 years and older who:

  • Are an unpaid primary caregiver for someone diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or another related dementia
  • Provide an average of at least four hours of care each day in the care recipient's home
  • Have at least mild symptoms of caregiver stress or depression
  • Can speak, read, and write English
  • Have access to a smartphone that is compatible with the study app

Individuals currently receiving psychotherapy or who have certain psychiatric, sensory, or cognitive conditions that would interfere with participation are not eligible.

Study Site

StateCitySite NameContact
Online Rice UniversityLexi O’Brien

Study Funder/Sponsor

This study is funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Institute on Aging.

For more information, please email Lexi O’Brien at [email protected] or call 713.348.3528.

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