Investigating sleep patterns in couples where one partner has mild cognitive impairment
Couples Health Aging, Rhythms and Sleep Study (CHARMS Study)
This study looks at how sleep problems in couples, where one partner has mild cognitive impairment, affect both partners' health and thinking skills over time.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 340 (estimated) |
| Ages | 50 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Utah Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Salt Lake City, Utah) |
| Trial ID | NCT05952284 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to explore the impact of sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances on couples where one partner has mild cognitive impairment (MCI). It focuses on how these disturbances affect both partners' health and cognitive functioning, particularly in relation to the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The study will assess daily and longitudinal effects of sleep interdependence and concordance between partners, highlighting the shared nature of sleep as a health behavior. Participants will be monitored for their sleep patterns and overall well-being over time.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are couples where one partner is over 50 years old and has mild cognitive impairment, while the other partner is cognitively intact.
Not a fit: Patients with severe medical or psychiatric conditions, or those currently using certain medications, may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and interventions for sleep-related issues in couples, potentially reducing the risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific dyadic approach to sleep in couples with MCI is novel, related studies have shown that sleep disturbances significantly impact cognitive health, suggesting potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Married or partnered in a romantic relationship, cohabiting for at least two years * age \>50 * smartphone user * one partner meets criteria for cognitive impairment without severe impairment in daytime dysfunction according to telephone screening, while other partner must not meet this criteria for impairment. Exclusion Criteria: * Unstable or severe medical or psychiatric conditions that would interfere with study participation (including but not limited to current cancer treatment, psychosis, history of major stroke, head injury with loss of consciousness \>30 min, other neurologic/systemic illness that may affect cognition, alcohol or other substance abuse) * current use of antipsychotic or anticonvulsant medications * inadequate vision, hearing, or dexterity to participate in the assessment * night shift work \>1x per month (defined as beginning work after 9:00 pm or work in the overnight hours \[12:00 am-5:00 am\])
Where this trial is running
Salt Lake City, Utah
- University of Utah — Salt Lake City, Utah, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Kelly Baron, PhD
- Email: kelly.baron@utah.edu
- Phone: 8015857588
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.