Family Talk Intervention for Families with Terminal Illness

The Family Talk Intervention in Clinical Practice When a Parent With Dependent Children is Severely Ill: An Effectiveness-implementation Study

Not applicable Interventional Ersta Sköndal University College · NCT05365919

This study is testing a support program that helps families with young children cope with terminal illnesses by improving their communication and family strengths through guided meetings.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment400 (estimated)
Ages6 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorErsta Sköndal University College Academic / other
Locations1 site (Stockholm)
Trial IDNCT05365919 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This intervention evaluates the Family Talk Intervention (FTI), a psychosocial support program designed for families with dependent children affected by life-threatening illnesses. The study employs a cluster randomized design across 12 specialized palliative home care clinics, where social workers trained in FTI will facilitate six meetings with participating families. The effectiveness of FTI will be assessed through surveys and interviews conducted before and after the intervention, focusing on communication about illness and family strengths.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are families with dependent children aged 0-19 years who are affected by a life-threatening or life-limiting illness and enrolled in specialized palliative home care.

Not a fit: Patients without dependent children or those not enrolled in specialized palliative home care may not benefit from this intervention.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve communication and emotional support for families dealing with terminal illness.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on the Family Talk Intervention, similar psychosocial support interventions have shown promise in improving family dynamics in palliative care settings.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Families affected by a life-threatening or life-limiting illness and have dependent children, ill or health aged 0-19 years and
* Enrolled in specialized palliative home care
* At least two family members have accepted to participate

Exclusion Criteria:

-

Where this trial is running

Stockholm

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Terminal IllnessSpecialised palliative careCommunicationFamily Intervention
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.