Improving communication in dementia care using technology
Integration of Health Information Technology and Promotion of Personhood in Family-Centered Dementia Care
This study is testing a new app called CareHeroes that helps people with Alzheimer's and similar conditions communicate better with their caregivers and doctors, making it easier for them to share their daily needs and experiences.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Florida International University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Miami, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10841026 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing communication for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) through the development of a specialized app called CareHeroes. The app is designed to assist caregivers in addressing common challenges and improve interactions between caregivers and healthcare providers. By integrating an Assistive Alternative Communication (AAC) device that utilizes touchscreen technology, the project aims to empower patients to express their daily care preferences and experiences more effectively. The approach is grounded in evidence-based practices and aims to create a customizable interface tailored to the needs of those with dementia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias who experience communication difficulties.
Not a fit: Patients without cognitive impairments or those in the early stages of dementia who do not experience significant communication deficits may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the quality of life for patients with dementia by enhancing their ability to communicate their needs and preferences.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using technology to improve communication for dementia patients, making this approach both promising and grounded in prior findings.
Where this research is happening
Miami, United States
- Florida International University — Miami, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brown, Ellen Leslie — Florida International University
- Study coordinator: Brown, Ellen Leslie
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 below.