Cultural adaptation of a mobile caregiver intervention for Hispanic dementia caregivers

NIH RePORTER · NIH · K23 · $178,487 · view on reporter.nih.gov ↗

Abstract

Hispanics are the fastest growing population in the U.S. that has been identified as being at higher risk for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). They are 1.5 times more likely to develop ADRD, and Hispanic ADRD informal caregivers experience more burden compared to other impacted groups. There is an identified need to adapt interventions and make them relevant to meet the needs of Hispanic ADRD informal caregivers. My past research has focused on examining various factors as they related to ADRD cognition and symptomatology. In the proposed K23 application, I aim to fill an existing gap in my training by applying the knowledge I’ve gained and gain experience and training in clinical trial research and methodology. I plan to pursue a career as an independently funded investigator in the field of tailored interventions for ADRD caregivers and patients from groups at high risk for ADRD. The proposed study will use a mixed method approach to conduct the necessary stage 0 and 1A activities of the NIH Stage model to assess needs of Hispanic ADRD informal caregivers and develop modifications to Brain CareNotes, a secure mobile telehealth application for informal caregivers to manage behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) with the aid of a remote care coach. Preliminary data on a general sample have shown that BCN reduced caregiver burden (Neuropsychiatric Inventory [NPI]-Caregiver Distress) and BPSD at 3 and 6 months. Focused tailoring of this intervention requires more than just Spanish translation, but integration of factors which effect psychological and neurological functioning in both caregivers and ADRD patients. Guided by an framework for intervention adaptations, I propose to tailor Brain CareNotes for Hispanic ADRD caregivers. This will be accomplished by first conducting a needs assessment among Hispanic ADRD informal caregivers (aim 1) in relation to managing BPSD and how life factors play a role. I will then use participatory co-design methods to adapt and modify Brain CareNotes (aim 2). Once the focused adaptations are complete, I will conduct a pilot study to ensure a future R01 proposed RCT will be powered to detect reduction in caregiver burden and BPSD among Hispanic ADRD patients (NPI scores).

Key facts

NIH application ID
10985780
Project number
1K23AG084856-01A1
Recipient
TRUSTEES OF INDIANA UNIVERSITY
Principal Investigator
Miriam Jocelyn Rodriguez
Activity code
K23
Funding institute
NIH
Fiscal year
2024
Award amount
$178,487
Award type
1
Project period
2024-09-03 → 2029-06-30