Understanding the well-being of family caregivers for adults with autism and developmental disabilities
Official title: Family caregivers in later life: A longitudinal study of well-being and mental health in families of adults with autism and developmental disabilities
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11126538 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how family caregivers of adults with autism and developmental disabilities can stay healthy and connected as they get older, and it aims to find helpful ways to support their mental well-being over the next five years.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $636,768 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG080599-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11126538 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are family caregivers of adults with autism or developmental disabilities who are in their 60s.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have family caregivers or those who are not involved in the care of adults with autism or developmental disabilities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the well-being and mental health of family caregivers who support adults with autism and developmental disabilities as they age. Over five years, the study will track changes in social connections and isolation among caregivers, using various methods such as questionnaires, app-based diaries, and interviews. By examining the impact of life milestones and coping strategies, the research aims to identify ways to enhance caregiver resilience and support their mental health. The study builds on a rich history of data collected over the past 30 years.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide valuable insights and strategies to improve the mental health and well-being of family caregivers.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding caregiver dynamics and mental health, making this approach both relevant and promising.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lord, Catherine — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Lord, Catherine
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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.