Training caregivers to help manage pain in people with dementia
Official title: Caregiver-assisted pain coping skills training for dementia
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10952148 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating a special training program for family caregivers to help them support loved ones with Alzheimer's and related dementias in managing pain without relying on medication, making life easier and more comfortable for both the patients and their caregivers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 26, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $374,090 |
| NIH project number | 1R61AG088938-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10952148 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with early to moderate Alzheimer's disease or related dementias who live in the community and require caregiver support.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced dementia who are in long-term care facilities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a caregiver-assisted pain coping skills training program specifically designed for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. It aims to address the significant pain management needs of these patients, who often rely heavily on family caregivers for support. The program will utilize non-pharmacological techniques based on cognitive behavioral principles to help both patients and caregivers manage pain more effectively. By training caregivers, the research seeks to improve the overall well-being of both the patients and their caregivers in a community setting.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies for individuals with dementia, enhancing their quality of life and reducing caregiver stress.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that non-pharmacological pain management approaches can be effective for older adults, suggesting potential success for this caregiver-assisted model.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Porter, Laura S — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Porter, Laura S
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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.