Compass for Care for Dementia Caregivers
(Compass4Care Trial)

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: Pro-Change Behavior Systems

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?In the US, the over 11 million Americans currently providing unpaid care to a family member, relative, or friend with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia (ADRD) are over 6 times more likely than the general population to suffer from depression (33.9% vs. 5%), and nearly 60% rate their emotional distress as high or very high. The purpose of this Phase II research is to continue the successful work of the pilot development and testing by conducting a rigorous scientific study of the effects of Compass for Care, a digital program that customizes behavior change guidance for using five self-care behaviors critical to ADRD caregiver well-being: 1) taking time to recharge; 2) finding information about your loved one's diagnosis and needs; 3) discovering your strengths and limits; 4) exploring outside help; and 5) seeking emotional support.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias (ADRD) who are experiencing high levels of emotional distress. It aims to help them manage their well-being through a digital program called Compass for Care.

Inclusion Criteria

Expecting to provide care to their family member or friend for at least three more months, or don't know how much longer they will be providing care

Have been providing care for at least 3 months

Score of 3 or higher on the Zarit burden item (Overall, how burdened do you feel in caring for your relative) OR a score of 2 on this item and a score of 2+ on the PHQ-2 assessment (i.e., Little interest or pleasure in doing things; Feeling down, depressed, or hopeless)

+6 more

Exclusion Criteria

Indicating suicidal ideation based upon the PHQ-9 suicidality ideation item (i.e., Thoughts that you would be better off dead, or of hurting yourself)

Participant Groups

The study tests two versions of the Compass for Care mobile app, one focusing on safety and the other on overall well-being. The goal is to see if these apps can reduce stress and improve mental health among ADRD caregivers.

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Compass for Care (Well-being intervention)Experimental Treatment1 Intervention

Participants receive 12 weekly modules containing interactive activities and static content and tailored messages delivered via text message or email. The intervention focuses on five self-care behaviors critical to ADRD caregiver well-being: 1) taking time to recharge; 2) finding information about your loved one's diagnosis and needs; 3) discovering your strengths and limits; 4) exploring outside help; and 5) seeking emotional support.

Group II: Compass for Care (Safety intervention)Active Control1 Intervention

Participants receive 12 weekly modules and tailored messages delivered via text message or email. The intervention focuses on safety behaviors (e.g., weather safety, first aid, home safety, etc.)