How childhood trauma affects adult caregiving for aging parents

The Life Course Approach to Caregiving for Aging Parents: Role of Adverse Childhood Experiences

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10984966

This study looks at how tough experiences in childhood, like abuse or neglect, affect adults who are taking care of their aging parents, helping us understand how these past challenges shape their caregiving and relationships today.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-10984966 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), such as abuse or neglect, impact the ability and outcomes of adults who care for their aging parents. By analyzing data from the Midlife in the United States studies, the research aims to identify the prevalence of caregivers who have experienced ACEs and how these experiences influence their caregiving roles. The study focuses on understanding the long-term effects of childhood trauma on adult responsibilities and relationships, particularly in the context of caregiving. This approach highlights the importance of considering early life experiences when assessing caregiver stress and outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults who are currently caregivers for aging parents and have experienced adverse childhood events.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced any adverse childhood events or are not involved in caregiving for aging parents may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved support and interventions for adult caregivers who have experienced childhood trauma, enhancing their well-being and caregiving effectiveness.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown significant links between adverse childhood experiences and various adult outcomes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into caregiving dynamics.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.