Caregiver Stress and Sleep Study

Trial statusRecruiting
Trial phaseNot applicable
Trial typeInterventional
Biological sexAll
Age55+
SponsorUniversity of Pittsburgh

About this trial

The purpose of this research study is to better understand how stress, sleep and activity might impact caregivers' mood and brain health. This study includes a randomized experimental component where therapists will systematically deliver one of two evidence-based talk-therapy treatments. The aim is to evaluate effects on meaningful health-relevant measures including morning activation levels, depression symptoms, rumination, and aspects brain connectivity previously linked with depression. Participants will complete surveys about their caregiving experiences, health, and mood, undergo an MRI, and wear an actigraphy watch that measures activity levels throughout the day and when sleeping.

Eligibility criteria

Qualifiers

Age 55 years or older.

Provide at least 15 hours/week of unpaid care to a patient with a dementia diagnosis.

Reporting stress or strain delivering care

No or stable pharmacotherapy for depression

Disqualifiers

Unsafe or unable to undergo MRI

Active Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for mood or insomnia

Probable dementia diagnosis

Deadly illness or plans to leave the study area

Trial design

Treatments tested in this trial

  • Morning Action Plan Execution
  • Activity Strategy-based Session with Therapist
  • Attention-based Session with Therapist
  • Advance sleep-wake time

Treatment groups

120 Participants
are divided into 2 treatment groups

Sponsors and collaborators

University of Pittsburgh

Lead sponsor

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

Collaborator