PST + EUC for Managing Caregiver Stress

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen bySherry A Beaudreau, PhD

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: VA Office of Research and Development

No Placebo Group

Approved in 1 Jurisdiction

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to increased caregiving demands for caregivers of Veterans with dementia. Dementia caregivers are particularly at-risk for depression and anxiety, known risk factors for increased suicidality. Emerging research also suggests that dementia caregivers are experiencing greater suicidality during COVID-19 at a time when VHA is also devoting increased efforts toward caregiver health and support services. Aims are to determine the feasibility and acceptability of video-delivered Problem-Solving Therapy for reducing suicide risk in caregivers of Veterans with dementia.

Research Team

Sherry A Beaudreau, PhD

Principal Investigator

VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for caregivers over 50 years old who look after a Veteran and have had suicidal thoughts in the past month but are not at immediate risk. They must be able to use the internet for video sessions, not have dementia or severe mental health issues like psychosis, bipolar disorder, or severe OCD. They should also not have recent head injuries, unstable chronic illnesses, or substance abuse problems.

Inclusion Criteria

I have not been diagnosed with severe mental health disorders like psychosis, bipolar, or severe OCD.

I am not currently taking anti-psychotics for a psychotic disorder.

No prominent homicidal ideation

See 14 more

Exclusion Criteria

My senses are not good enough for tests or treatment.

I have had a severe head injury or one in the past year.

AUDIT Total cut-off scores for exclusion

See 13 more

Treatment Details

Interventions

Problem Solving Therapy (PST) (Behavioral Intervention)

Trial OverviewThe study tests Problem-Solving Therapy delivered via video to reduce suicide risk among caregivers of Veterans with dementia during COVID-19. It aims to see if this approach is practical and well-received by participants.

Participant Groups

1Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: Active treatment plus EUCExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

All caregivers are assigned to this condition and receive the treatment plus EUC.