A program to help caregivers of people with dementia manage stress
The Mindful and Self-Compassionate Care Program (MASC): Reducing Stress for Caregivers of Persons with Dementia
['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-10848361
This study is creating a friendly program called MASC to help caregivers of people with Alzheimer's and related dementias feel less stressed by teaching them mindfulness and self-compassion techniques in a supportive online group.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10848361 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research develops and tests the Mindful and Self-Compassionate Care Program (MASC), aimed at reducing stress for caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The program combines mindfulness, self-compassion, and behavioral management techniques delivered in a virtual group setting. Caregivers will participate in focus groups to shape the program, followed by pilot testing to assess its feasibility and effectiveness in improving mental well-being. The program includes six sessions and an online platform for ongoing support.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias who are experiencing high levels of stress.
Not a fit: Patients who are not caregivers or those who do not have a family member or friend with dementia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce stress and improve the mental health of caregivers for individuals with dementia.
How similar studies have performed: Similar approaches combining mindfulness and self-compassion have shown promise in improving caregiver well-being in previous studies.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: RITCHIE, CHRISTINE S — MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: RITCHIE, CHRISTINE S
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome