NCT07342569 · University of South Florida
The WeACT Program for Family Caregivers of People Living With Dementia
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn whether WeACT, a self-paced, web-based program, is feasible and helpful for adult family caregivers of a relative living with dementia. WeACT is based on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), which teaches skills to handle difficult thoughts and feelings and take steps toward what matters most.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn whether WeACT, a self-paced, web-based program, is feasible and helpful for adult family caregivers of a relative living with dementia. WeACT is based on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), which teaches skills to handle difficult thoughts and feelings and take steps toward what matters most. The main questions this study aims to answer are: * Can caregivers complete WeACT as planned? * Do caregivers show improvements in mental health and coping after using WeACT? * What are caregivers' experiences with the program, and what suggestions do they have to improve it? Participants will: * Complete six self-paced weekly online modules and use the daily practice section during the program. * Complete online questionnaires before starting and after completing the program. * Take part in one online interview about their experience.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
WeACT
WeACT includes six self-paced weekly ACT modules and a tailored daily practice component. Each weekly module includes ACT skills training materials. The daily practice section provides brief, in-the-moment ACT skill coaching based on participants' current self-ratings.
Primary outcome measures
Enrollment rate
Time frame: During the recruitment period (up to approximately 6 months)
Enrollment rate will be defined as the number of individuals who consent and complete baseline divided by the number eligible and invited.
Retention (post-intervention assessment completion)
Time frame: Baseline through post-intervention (approximately 6-8 weeks)
Retention will be defined as the proportion of enrolled participants who complete the post-intervention assessment.
Core module completion (adherence)
Time frame: During program participation (~6-8 weeks)
Adherence will be defined as completion of the core modules (range 0-6 modules).
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 caregivers of people living with dementia will be eligible to participate if they meet all of the following criteria:
- Are community-dwelling adults aged 18 years or older who have primary caregiving responsibilities for a relative diagnosed with dementia;
- Present mild to moderately severe depressive symptoms, as measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), with scores between 5 and 19; and
- Have access to a web-enabled device, such as a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer, with internet access.
Exclusion criteria
- Family caregivers of people living with dementia will be excluded if they meet any of the following criteria:
- Have cognitive, physical, or sensory impairments, or are unable to complete study procedures in English, that may impede study participation;
- Present severe depressive symptoms, defined as PHQ-9 scores of 20 or higher;
- Report having thoughts of harming themselves or attempting suicide within the past six months;
- Have previously participated in a research study involving an ACT program;
- Are currently participating in another caregiver intervention study; or
- Have experienced more than three hospitalizations of either the family caregiver or the relative with dementia within the past year.
Where
- Tampa, Florida
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 Sep 25, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations