Improving communication and reducing distress for older cancer patients with mild cognitive impairment and their caregivers

A Patient-Caregiver Behavioral Intervention for Older Adults with Cancer and Mild Cognitive Impairment

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10898063

This study is testing a friendly program called COPE+ to help older adults with cancer and mild memory issues feel better emotionally and communicate more easily with their family caregivers, making life a little easier for everyone involved.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10898063 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a behavioral intervention designed to help older adults with cancer and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) manage their emotional distress and improve communication with their family caregivers. The intervention, called COPE+, aims to address the unique challenges faced by this population, as both patients and caregivers often experience high levels of anxiety and depression. Through a structured program, the study will provide tools and strategies to enhance the quality of life for both the patients and their caregivers. Participants will engage in activities that foster better understanding and support, ultimately aiming to reduce distress and improve overall well-being.

Who could benefit from this research

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

Not a fit: Patients who do not have cancer or mild cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the emotional well-being and communication skills of older adults with cancer and their caregivers.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using behavioral interventions to support cancer patients and their caregivers, indicating that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.