Understanding the connection between people with frontotemporal dementia and their caregivers

Behavioral and physiological linkage in people with frontotemporal dementia and spousal caregivers

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11006263

This study looks at how the feelings and heart rates of people with frontotemporal dementia and their spouses are connected, to better understand how the condition affects their relationship and the well-being of caregivers.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (OMAHA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11006263 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how emotional behaviors and physiological responses, such as heart rates, are linked between individuals with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and their spousal caregivers. It aims to explore how the interpersonal connection between these two groups is affected by the symptoms of FTD, which can include apathy and disinhibition. By using both behavioral and physiological measures, the study seeks to provide a more objective understanding of this connection, which could help identify how the health of caregivers is impacted by the emotional state of their loved ones with dementia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia and their spousal caregivers.

Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia or do not have a spousal caregiver may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved support strategies for caregivers of individuals with frontotemporal dementia, enhancing their well-being.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of examining physiological and behavioral linkage in FTD is novel, similar studies in other dementia types have shown promising results in understanding caregiver dynamics.

Where this research is happening

OMAHA, 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 →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease

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.