Psychological and Immune System Health in Dementia Caregivers

What Is This Study About?

This study will evaluate the effects of caring for a spouse, family member, or friend with dementia on the health of the caregiver. Participants will wear an activity tracker and complete a questionnaire. They will also provide a blood sample at the start of the study and after six and 12 months. Researchers will assess the social and overall health of the caregiver based on the results of the questionnaires and blood tests to measure hormones and other indicators related to stress, social interaction, and immune system activity.

Do I Qualify To Participate in This Study?

Must have:

• Caregiver of a spouse, family member, or a friend with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia disorder
• Assist the person with dementia with at least one activity of daily living (e.g., bathing, dressing, toileting, feeding, moving from sitting to standing) several times a month

Must NOT have:

• Any major endocrine diseases (e.g., diabetes, Cushing's disease, Addison's disease)
• If female, must not be on hormone replacement therapy

If I Qualify, Who Do I Contact?

Contact study personnel listed either under the general study contact or the location nearest you.

 

Where Is This Study Located?

New York
Stony Brook University Stony Brook, NY 11794 Recruiting Erin Casella (631) 638-1544 Erin.Casella@stonybrookmedicine.edu

Who Sponsors This Study?

Lead: Stony Brook University

Collaborator Sponsor

• National Institutes of Health