Smart Healthcare Technology for Alzheimer's Caregiver Support
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new smart technology called the Mood Monitoring and Behavioral Recommendation System, designed to assist caregivers of people with dementia. It monitors mood and stress levels in both the caregiver and the person with dementia, using voice analysis and machine learning to provide personalized advice for improving interactions. The goal is to reduce caregiver stress and enhance the relationship between caregiver and patient. Suitable participants include those living with someone who has dementia and frequently experience caregiving-related stress. As an unphased trial, participants contribute to innovative research that may enhance caregiving experiences.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It focuses on monitoring and supporting caregiver-patient interactions rather than medication changes.
What prior data suggests that this monitoring and recommendation system is safe for dementia patient care?
Research has shown that using smart technology to monitor mood and behavior in people with dementia can be helpful. Studies have found that remote monitoring tools can ease stress for caregivers and improve the management of Alzheimer's disease. These tools track mood changes and provide timely advice to assist caregivers.
For example, remote monitoring devices effectively observe patients' behavior and ensure their safety. They alert caregivers to issues like wandering or falls. Additionally, wearable devices and apps with GPS help caregivers manage patients' movements.
Regarding safety, research suggests that these monitoring systems are generally well-accepted. They aim to improve the quality of life for both patients and caregivers by offering support without being intrusive. So far, studies reviewed have reported no major negative effects from using these technologies.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Mood Monitoring and Behavioral Recommendation System because it offers a fresh approach to supporting Alzheimer's caregivers. Unlike traditional treatments that focus on managing symptoms with medication, this system uses in-home acoustic monitoring to assess mood and provides mindfulness-based stress reduction tips through a smartphone. This tech-driven method aims to reduce caregiver stress and improve overall well-being, making it a potentially valuable addition to current care strategies.
What evidence suggests that this monitoring and recommendation system is effective for dementia care?
Research has shown that tools for monitoring mood and providing helpful advice can reduce stress for those caring for dementia patients. In this trial, all dementia/caregiver dyads will use a Mood Monitoring and Behavioral Recommendation System. This system includes in-home acoustic monitoring to classify mood and offers mindfulness-based stress reduction recommendations via a smartphone. One study found that analyzing speech can track mood changes and help lower stress levels for caregivers. Additionally, activity trackers have monitored behavioral changes in dementia patients, supporting non-drug treatments. These tools aim to improve interactions between caregivers and patients, making caregiving less stressful. Overall, early results suggest these technologies can ease the caregiving process.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Karen M Rose, PhD
Principal Investigator
Ohio State University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for men and women aged 60-90 with documented dementia, including Alzheimer's, who live at home and speak English. Caregivers must be over 21, living with the patient, not paid for their care work, have functioning home Wifi, and experience a certain level of stress as measured by a clinical checklist.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Monitoring and Modeling
In-home acoustic monitoring to classify mood and provide mindfulness-based stress reduction recommendations via a smartphone
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in caregiver strain, emotional reactivity, and family functioning
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Mood Monitoring and Behavioral Recommendation System
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Ohio State University
Lead Sponsor
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Collaborator
University of Virginia
Collaborator