Improving support for caregivers of Alzheimer's patients with swallowing difficulties
Official title: Dementia IDEAs: An Evidence-based Intervention for Dysphagia to supportthe Unique Needs of AD/ADRD Care Partners
Funded at Better Brains, INC · NIH-10823016 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating a helpful program for caregivers of people with Alzheimer's and related dementias who have trouble swallowing, so they can get the support and training they need to manage these challenges better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Better Brains, INC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Escondido, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $499,964 |
| NIH project number | 1R41AG085909-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10823016 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are caregivers of individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease or related dementias who are experiencing difficulties with swallowing.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have Alzheimer's Disease or related dementias, or who do not experience dysphagia, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing an intervention called Dementia IDEAs, aimed at supporting caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias who face challenges with swallowing difficulties (dysphagia). The project will involve assessing the unique needs of these caregivers and co-designing a digital training program that includes educational content and behavioral nudges to help them manage dysphagia more effectively. By utilizing a user-centered design approach, the research aims to create a tailored solution that addresses the emotional and practical challenges faced by caregivers.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the quality of life for caregivers by providing them with effective tools and support for managing dysphagia in Alzheimer's patients.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been various interventions aimed at caregiver support, this specific approach focusing on dysphagia management in Alzheimer's caregivers is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Better Brains, INC
Escondido, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zuraw, Matthew — Better Brains, INC
- Study coordinator: Zuraw, Matthew
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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.