USC Caregiver Study

Are you a caregiver for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia? Your input is needed to identify the best ways to educate families about the challenges of elder care. There’s no question that caregiving for a spouse or parent with dementia is a labor of love. But the daily challenges of elder care – from managing finances to assisting with a loved one’s most basic needs – can push even the most dedicated caregiver to the limit. This stress can lead caregivers to respond in unexpected ways: Shouting, grabbing, slapping – all the things none of us would ever want a loved one with dementia to experience. As a caregiver, you are the expert. We need your help in developing educational materials that forewarn caregivers of the challenges they may face in the future and help them avoid potential pitfalls. Help others caring for a loved one with dementia by participating in a discussion around this important topic. If you are interested in participating, please contact Ana Poblet-Kouttjie at the USC Department of Family Medicine and Geriatrics: (626) 457-6621. Ana will conduct a brief screening interview, answer any questions you may have, and if appropriate, schedule you for a focus group with other caregivers of persons with dementia. Caregivers who participate in the focus group or assessment will be compensated as a token of thanks for their time and thoughts.