Helping older adults with mild cognitive impairment and their caregivers engage in meaningful daily activities

Promoting Reengagement in Daily Meaningful Activity Intervention for Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Their Caregivers

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10589844

This study is testing a program called 'Daily Engagement in Meaningful Activity' (DEMA) to help older adults with mild cognitive impairment and their family caregivers feel happier and less anxious by encouraging them to participate in activities they enjoy together.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10589844 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on a tailored intervention called 'Daily Engagement in Meaningful Activity' (DEMA) aimed at older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and their family caregivers. The intervention is delivered by nurses and is designed to enhance the participants' engagement in activities that they find meaningful, which can improve their life satisfaction and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. By addressing both the patients and their caregivers, the study aims to alleviate caregiver burden and improve communication and relationships within the dyad. The approach is based on the idea that engaging in meaningful activities can help maintain cognitive function and overall well-being.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who have been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment, along with their family caregivers.

Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive impairment or those who are unable to participate in daily activities may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the quality of life for older adults with MCI and their caregivers by promoting engagement in meaningful activities.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that interventions focusing on meaningful activities can improve life satisfaction and reduce depressive symptoms, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.