How swallowing problems affect caregivers of people with Alzheimer's and related dementias

Influence of swallowing impairment on burden among caregivers of persons with Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias

NIH-funded research University of Oregon · NIH-10839836

This study looks at how swallowing difficulties, called dysphagia, affect the stress and challenges faced by caregivers of people with Alzheimer's and similar conditions, and it aims to find ways to help both caregivers and those they care for feel better and have a better quality of life.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Oregon NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Eugene, United States)
Project IDNIH-10839836 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of swallowing impairments, known as dysphagia, on the burden experienced by caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. It aims to understand how dysphagia contributes to the physical and emotional challenges faced by caregivers throughout different stages of the disease. By examining factors such as caregiver knowledge and support, the study seeks to identify effective interventions that can alleviate caregiver burden and improve the quality of life for both caregivers and care recipients. The research will involve collecting data from caregivers to quantify the effects of dysphagia and develop strategies for better support.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are family caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias who are experiencing swallowing difficulties.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, or who do not experience swallowing impairments, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved support systems for caregivers, enhancing their well-being and the quality of care they provide.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing dysphagia can significantly impact caregiver burden, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Eugene, 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.
Conditions Swallowing DisordersDeglutition Disorders
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.