Dementia Caregivers Research Study

Researchers at the University of South Florida are conducting a study on sleep challenges in caregivers caring for someone with dementia.

Fast Facts

Caregiver living with a person with dementia

Experiencing Sleep Difficulties

Compensation

Provided

Conducted in

Tampa, FL

Study Background

Sleep issues are common in caregivers, and they can affect both mental and physical health.

Caring for someone with dementia can be demanding, and many caregivers report struggling with sleep. Poor sleep can increase stress, lower immunity, and make it harder to provide care. This study, funded by the National Institute on Aging, is testing two behavioral sleep programs designed specifically for caregivers.

We want to understand how these online treatments can improve sleep and health — not only for caregivers, but also for the person with dementia they care for. By participating, caregivers will help advance research and contribute to better support tools for others in similar roles.

Study Background

Sleep issues are common in caregivers, and they can affect both mental and physical health.

Caring for someone with dementia can be demanding, and many caregivers report struggling with sleep. Poor sleep can increase stress, lower immunity, and make it harder to provide care. This study, funded by the National Institute on Aging, is testing two behavioral sleep programs designed specifically for caregivers.

We want to understand how these online treatments can improve sleep and health — not only for caregivers, but also for the person with dementia they care for. By participating, caregivers will help advance research and contribute to better support tools for others in similar roles.

Additional Information

We’re studying how two web-based sleep treatments may help caregivers sleep better and improve their overall health, while also positively impacting the sleep of the person with dementia.

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

  • 18 years or older
  • Caregiver living with a person with dementia
  • Experiencing sleep difficulties
  • No prescribed or over-the-counter sleep medications for 1+ months
  • No sleep disorders other than insomnia
  • No psychotropic medications

Here’s what to expect:

  • In-person visits: Our team will meet you at home or at USF for a medical history review, a few game-like tasks, and sample collection (blood and hair).

  • Online treatment: You’ll complete a 4-week web-based sleep program, guided by a therapist.

  • Follow-ups: We’ll check in at 6 and 12 months to see how you’re doing.

We aim to make participation convenient and low-burden, with a mix of home, lab, and virtual options.

As a participant, you may receive up to $650 in compensation.

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.