NCT06177990 · Emory University
Caregiver as Navigator: Develop Skills Online (CAN-DO)
What this study is about
This study is designed to learn more about ways to promote caregiver mastery online. 270 dementia family caregivers will be enrolled and randomly assigned to take the CAN-DO online course immediately or after a waiting period. They will participate in interviews before and after the course; total time of study participation is 6 months.
View original scientific description
This study is designed to learn more about ways to promote caregiver mastery online. 270 dementia family caregivers will be enrolled and randomized to take the CAN-DO online course immediately or after a waiting period. They will participate in interviews before and after the course; total time of study participation is 6 months.
Interventions
OTHER
Caregiver as Navigator: Develop Skills Online (CAN-DO) program
Online, asynchronous psychoeducation program for dementia family caregivers. The program is meant to enhance caregivers' knowledge and skills for navigating healthcare, financial, legal, and family systems. The program has three main sections. * The first section provides information and how to prepare for using the healthcare system and community-based services in dementia care and support. * The second provides information about how to be more effective when using the financial and legal system either for yourself or your person. * The third section of the course provides information about ways to manage and navigate family dynamics present in various caregiving scenarios more effectively.
OTHER
Healthy Living online course
Online program for dementia family caregivers about "Healthy Living" for the first 4 months post-randomization.
Primary outcome measures
Change in Pearlin Caregiver Stress Scales score
Time frame: Baseline, 2, 4, 6, and 8 months post-intervention
This primary outcome will measure Caregiver Mastery (including Competence, Confidence, Management of Situation). The Pearlin caregiver scale includes 8 items, with a rating from 1-4 for each of them. Total possible score range is 8-32. Higher score correlates with better outcome.
Change in Caregiver Assessment of Behavioral Skill scale score
Time frame: Baseline, 2, 4, 6, and 8 months post-intervention
This study outcome will also measure Caregiver Mastery. Caregiver Assessment of Behavioral Skills score will be assessed using the Fortinsky scale that includes 17 items rated from 0-3 each. Possible score range is 0-51. Higher score correlates with better outcome.
Change in State-Trait Anxiety Scale score
Time frame: Baseline, 2, 4, 6, and 8 months post-intervention
This outcome will measure Caregiver Emotional Wellbeing. The State-Trait Anxiety Scale includes 20 items, each of them rated 1-4. Total possible score range 20-80 with higher score correlated with better study outcome.
Change in Perceived Stress Scale score
Time frame: Baseline, 2, 4, 6, and 8 months post-intervention
This outcome will measure Caregiver Emotional Wellbeing. The Perceived Stress Scale includes 10 items, each of them rated 1-5, with a total possible score 10-50. Lower score correlates with better study outcome.
Change in Caregiver Burden Index
Time frame: Baseline, 2, 4, 6, and 8 months post-intervention
This outcome will measure Caregiver Emotional Wellbeing. The caregiver burden Index includes 22 items, each of them rated 0-4, with a total possible score 0-88. Lower score correlates with better study outcome.
Change in Dyadic Relationship Scale score
Time frame: Baseline, 2, 4, 6, and 8 months post-intervention
This outcome will assess Caregiver Emotional Wellbeing. The Dyadic Relationship Scale includes 11 items rated from 1 to 4, with a total possible score range 11-44. Higher score correlates with better outcome.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Family member or friend providing at least 4 hours per week of informal care for a community-dwelling person living with ADRD
- 18 years or older
- Has internet access
- Does not have to co-reside with the individual
- Understands, speaks, and reads English
Exclusion criteria
- Family caregiver plans to move care recipient to an institutional setting within the next six months
- Care recipient currently enrolled in hospice
Where
- Atlanta, Georgia
Collaborators
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jan 12, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations