Understanding social connections in ALS patients
Social Connectedness in People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: The Impact of Dysarthria, Immobility, and Psychosocial Factors
This study is looking at how ALS impacts people's ability to stay connected with others, especially when it comes to talking and moving around, and it aims to find ways to help improve social interactions for ALS patients over six months using their smartphones.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mgh Institute of Health Professions NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlestown, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10980441 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) affects social connectedness among patients, particularly focusing on the challenges posed by speech and mobility impairments. By conducting a longitudinal study with 200 ALS patients over six months, the research aims to identify the causes of social disconnection and develop strategies to enhance social interactions. Participants will use their smartphones to provide data through surveys and speech recordings, as well as GPS tracking, to better understand their social experiences and needs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis who experience speech and mobility challenges.
Not a fit: Patients with ALS who do not experience significant speech or mobility impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for reducing isolation and enhancing the quality of life for ALS patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the focus on social connectedness in ALS is relatively novel, similar approaches in other conditions have shown promise in improving patient outcomes.
Where this research is happening
Charlestown, UNITED STATES
- Mgh Institute of Health Professions — Charlestown, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Connaghan, Kathryn Patricia — Mgh Institute of Health Professions
- Study coordinator: Connaghan, Kathryn Patricia
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.