This study aims to evaluate a program designed to enhance emergency preparedness and support networks of caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD). The program focuses on increasing caregivers’ resilience and minimizing distress.

What is this study about?

The study tests whether the program will help caregivers feel less stressed and more resilient, and influence their confidence, preparedness, and sense of support. It also explores whether the program can be delivered effectively in a real-world setting so it can reach and benefit more people in the future.

What is involved?

After providing consent, participants complete a 60-to-75-minute baseline interview in person, by phone, or via Zoom, after which caregivers are randomly assigned to either the intervention or control arm of the study.

Caregivers in the intervention group participate in an initial Disaster PrepWise session within two weeks that lasts 60 to 120 minutes and results in a personalized disaster management plan, followed by two short follow-up calls at four and eight weeks to refine and reinforce the plan. Data are collected from caregivers about the person living with dementia, who may join sessions if desired.

Caregivers assigned to the control group receive a four-page Alzheimer’s Association Emergency Preparedness handout after completing the baseline interview and are periodically contacted by the research team to answer questions and support continued engagement. Control participants complete 3-month and 6-month follow-up interviews in person, by telephone, or via Zoom. After the final interview, control participants are informed that they are eligible to receive the Disaster PrepWise intervention and, if interested, will be contacted by a trained interventionist within three weeks.

A subset of 30 participants will be selected to complete a 60-minute interview after the six-month survey.

Who can participate?

• 18 years of age or older
• Must have sufficient English proficiency to understand study procedures and provide informed consent.
• Actively supporting someone living with ADRD (the person living with ADRD must reside in the State of Iowa and live in a community setting or assisted living facility).

Study Site

Study Funder/Sponsor

This study is funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

For more information, please contact Maria Donohoe, Clinical Trials Research Coordinator, 319.631.9847 or email [email protected].