HRV Biofeedback for Caregiver Stress
(CARES Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how two methods can help family caregivers of Alzheimer's patients manage stress and improve well-being. One method uses heart-focused breathing to control heart rate, while the other involves listening to music. Researchers aim to assess the impact of these methods on caregiver stress, anxiety, and relationship quality. Primary, unpaid caregivers with at least six months of experience and a smartphone may be suitable for this trial. As an unphased trial, it offers caregivers a unique opportunity to explore innovative stress management techniques.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial excludes participants who are on medications that interfere with heart rate variability, so you may need to stop taking such medications to participate.
What prior data suggests that this heart rate variability biofeedback intervention is safe for family caregivers of Alzheimer's patients?
Research shows that heart-focused breathing is generally safe for most people. Studies have found that it positively affects the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety by improving the coordination between heart and breathing. No major reports of side effects or problems have been linked to heart-focused breathing. This simple technique involves focusing on the heart area and breathing more deeply than usual. As a non-invasive method, it does not involve surgery or entering the body, which typically enhances its safety.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Heart Focused Breathing technique for Alzheimer's caregivers because it offers a non-pharmacological approach to stress reduction. Unlike medications that often focus on chemical changes in the brain, this method emphasizes controlled breathing to potentially improve heart rate variability, which can lead to better stress management and emotional well-being. By addressing the caregiver's stress through a natural and accessible practice, it presents a promising alternative or complement to existing pharmacological treatments.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for family caregivers of Alzheimer's disease patients?
Research shows that focusing on breathing can reduce stress and improve mental health. Studies have found that regular, guided breathing exercises can lift mood and lower anxiety. In this trial, participants will join either the Heart Focused Breathing group or the Music Listening Control (MLC) group. Previous studies showed bigger improvements in quality of life for the Music Listening Control group. However, the Heart Focused Breathing group demonstrated increased self-kindness and better heart rate patterns, indicating improved stress management. This suggests that heart-focused breathing might reduce stress and lessen the burden on caregivers.13678
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo an 8-week heart rate variability biofeedback (HRVB) intervention or music listening control (MLC)
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in caregiver burden, stress, resilience, anxiety, self-compassion, and relationship quality
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Heart Focused Breathing
- Music Listening Control (MLC)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Arizona State University
Lead Sponsor