Remote Memory Loss Research Study
Researchers at the Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging are conducting a study to better understand how to support African American older adults experiencing memory changes and their care partners through a program designed to help plan for future care and improve overall well-being.
Fast Facts
Black/African American adults with suspected or diagnosed dementia
50+
years old
Compensation
provided up to $100
Conducted remotely
Study Background
Researchers at the Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging are conducting a study to better understand how to support African American adults experiencing memory changes and their care partners.
Memory changes and dementia can affect daily life, communication, and future planning for both individuals and their care partners. Programs that support people early in the course of memory changes may help improve well-being and strengthen communication about care preferences.
Through this study, we aim to learn more about how programs like SHARE can support African American adults experiencing memory changes and their family or friend care partners. We hope to better understand how culturally responsive support and care planning can improve access to resources and overall quality of life.
Eventually, findings from this study may help improve programs and services that support individuals living with memory changes and their care partners.
Study Background
Researchers at the Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging are conducting a study to better understand how to support African American adults experiencing memory changes and their care partners.
Memory changes and dementia can affect daily life, communication, and future planning for both individuals and their care partners. Programs that support people early in the course of memory changes may help improve well-being and strengthen communication about care preferences.
Through this study, we aim to learn more about how programs like SHARE can support African American adults experiencing memory changes and their family or friend care partners. We hope to better understand how culturally responsive support and care planning can improve access to resources and overall quality of life.
Eventually, findings from this study may help improve programs and services that support individuals living with memory changes and their care partners.
Additional Information
In this research study, we are trying to better understand how to support African American adults experiencing memory changes and their family or friend care partners. We aim to learn how programs that encourage communication, planning, and access to resources can help individuals and their care partners manage memory-related challenges and plan for future care.
Through this study, participants will take part in the SHARE program, which is designed to support both the person experiencing memory changes and their care partner. By studying how this program works for African American families, we hope to better understand how culturally responsive programs can improve well-being, strengthen care planning, and provide helpful resources.
The information we learn from this study may help improve future programs and services for individuals experiencing memory changes and their care partners.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Identify as Black or African American
- 50 years of age or older
- Experience memory changes or symptoms consistent with memory loss (a formal diagnosis is not required)
- Have a family member or friend who currently provides care or may provide care in the future
- Have access to a computer or tablet with internet, a phone, and an email address
Exclusion Criteria:
- Living in a residential care facility, nursing home, or assisted living community
The entire study takes place remotely. Once enrolled, participation involves the following:
Virtual sessions:
Participants will take part in either one session or six sessions of the SHARE program with a trained SHARE counselor. Each session lasts approximately 60–75 minutes and focuses on communication, planning for future care, and providing resources to help manage memory-related challenges.
Interviews and surveys:
Participants will also complete interviews before and after the program (about 60–75 minutes each). After each session, participants will complete a brief phone survey lasting about 5 minutes.
As a participant, you may receive up to $100.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
Approved by the Benjamin Rose Institutional Review Board, Protocol No. 2024-01-0530.