Text Messaging Support for Dementia Caregivers

(CAPTURE Trial)

This trial aims to assist caregivers of older adults with cognitive impairment after their loved ones leave the emergency department. It evaluates a text-messaging program called CAPTURE Text Message Care Transition Support, which delivers helpful tips, emotional support, and resources directly to caregivers' phones for 30 days. Caregivers who look after someone with cognitive challenges and have a mobile phone for text messages might find this trial beneficial. Participants will provide feedback on the usefulness and ease of the text messages. As an unphased trial, this study offers caregivers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative support solutions and enhance care transitions.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems unlikely that you would need to stop, as the study focuses on text messaging support for caregivers.

Research has shown that text messaging support systems for caregivers, like the CAPTURE program, are generally safe and well-received. Studies on similar programs, such as CuidaTEXT, have found that caregivers benefit from supportive text messages without any reported negative effects. These programs help reduce stress and improve caregivers' ability to manage changes in care.

The CAPTURE program sends up to two text messages per day to caregivers, offering tips and emotional support. This approach relies on feedback from caregivers and health professionals, ensuring the messages are useful and relevant. Since the program is non-invasive and focuses on providing information and support, it is unlikely to cause harm.

Researchers are excited about the CAPTURE Text Message Care Transition Support because it offers a personalized and accessible approach to helping dementia caregivers. Unlike standard care options, which might include instructions and referrals from emergency department staff, CAPTURE provides tailored, automated text messages directly to caregivers. These messages offer daily tips, emotional support, and links to trusted resources, making the support more immediate and relevant to each caregiver's unique needs. This innovative method of delivery aims to enhance caregiver preparedness and satisfaction in a way that's easy to use and integrate into daily life.

Research has shown that text message support can greatly benefit caregivers of people with dementia. Studies have found that these messages improve caregivers' well-being by providing helpful tips, emotional support, and resource links. For instance, one study found that text messages made caregivers feel more prepared and less stressed. Another study showed that caregivers appreciated the personalized and easily accessible messages. In this trial, participants in the intervention arm will receive the CAPTURE Text Message Care Transition Support, which may effectively assist caregivers during challenging times following an emergency department visit.¹²³⁶⁷