Overview
The primary goal of this pilot clinical trial is to establish the readiness of an intervention addressing the unique challenges facing lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) informal caregivers of person living with dementia (PLWD), and geared toward achieving caregiver mastery in this high-risk population, for a larger efficacy trial.
Description
Over 15 million family caregivers provide more than $200 billion in unpaid care to a person living with dementia (PLWD). Informal caregiving for PLWD by lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals continues to receive limited attention, and current research rarely examines how caregiving for PLWD affects the LGBT community.
The primary goal of this pilot clinical trial is to establish the readiness of an intervention addressing the unique challenges facing LGBT informal caregivers of PLWD, and geared toward achieving caregiver mastery in this high-risk population for a larger efficacy trial.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Self-identification as a LGBT adult (18 yrs. and over)
- Provides informal care to a community dwelling family member or friend with dementia
- Available to attend all SCP classes and one focus group and
- Consent to blood draw
Exclusion Criteria:
- Residence in a skilled nursing facility
- Significant neurological disease, stroke, TBI, or significant head trauma
- Any significant systemic illness or unstable medical condition which could affect cognition, cause difficulty complying with the protocol or consenting for study procedures
- History of alcohol substance abuse or dependence
- Currently participating in a study with an intervention (i.e., social/behavioral, drug, or device)