Exploring how social connections affect suicide risk in caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's and related dementias.
Official title: Social Connection and Suicide Risk in ADRD Caregivers
Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-11105801 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how having friends and family around can affect the mental health of caregivers who support people with Alzheimer's and related conditions, especially focusing on how loneliness and feeling overwhelmed might increase the risk of suicide among them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $407,783 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG082882-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11105801 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults who are caregivers for individuals with Alzheimer's Disease or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not involved in caregiving for individuals with Alzheimer's or related dementias may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of social connections on the mental health of caregivers who provide support to individuals with Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD). It focuses on understanding how feelings of loneliness and perceived burden can increase the risk of suicide among these caregivers. By examining the quality and quantity of social ties, the study aims to identify key factors that contribute to mental health challenges in this population. The research employs a combination of surveys and assessments to gather data on caregivers' experiences and mental health outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved support systems and interventions that enhance the mental well-being of ADRD caregivers, potentially reducing suicide risk.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated a strong link between social disconnection and mental health issues in caregivers, suggesting that this approach has potential for meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Van Orden, Kimberly Allison — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Van Orden, Kimberly Allison
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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.