A program to improve volunteer support for older adults with Alzheimer's disease
The PorchLight Project
The PorchLight Project is testing a new way to help older adults with Alzheimer's and similar conditions by training volunteers to provide better, more personal care, and it’s looking for participants in Minnesota to see how this support compares to regular care over a year.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11023135 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The PorchLight Project aims to enhance the quality of care for older adults with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias by training volunteers in person-centered care approaches. This initiative involves a comprehensive training program that includes online modules and ongoing coaching for volunteers, enabling them to better support individuals with dementia and their caregivers. The project will evaluate its effectiveness by comparing outcomes for participants receiving this specialized volunteer support against those receiving standard care over a 12-month period. The research will take place across Minnesota, involving a diverse group of participants.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, along with their family caregivers.
Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the quality of life for patients with Alzheimer's disease by enhancing the support they receive from trained volunteers.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that training volunteers in person-centered care can lead to improved outcomes for individuals with dementia, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gaugler, Joseph E. — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Gaugler, Joseph E.
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.