Grief Among Older Adult Family Caregivers

Overview

About this study

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the trajectory of loss and grief over 12 months, the risk factors associated with high levels of pre-loss grief, and the preliminary effectiveness of ART for treatment of high levels of pre-loss grief among family caregivers (FCG) of persons nearing the end of life.

Participation eligibility

Participant eligibility includes age, gender, type and stage of disease, and previous treatments or health concerns. Guidelines differ from study to study, and identify who can or cannot participate. There is no guarantee that every individual who qualifies and wants to participate in a trial will be enrolled. Contact the study team to discuss study eligibility and potential participation.

Inclusion Criteria - Part 1:

  • Older adult (age 60 or older).
  • English speaking.
  • Primary caregivers of cancer patients who have a life expectancy of 12 months or less. 
  • Life expectancy will be confirmed by the patient’s medical provider.

Exclusion Criteria - Part 1:

  • Any exception to above criteria.

Inclusion Criteria - Part 2:

  • To receive Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), participants must have:
    • Score of 60 or higher on the Marwit-Meuser Caregiver Grief Inventory-SF indicating high levels of caregiver grief, OR significant psychological trauma as documented by a score of 3 or higher on the Primary Care Post Traumatic Stress Disorder 5 
    • Denial of suicidal ideation or intent, with no evidence of psychotic behavior;
    • Access to a tablet, laptop, or desk computer at home;
    • Sufficient computer skills to be able to participate in Zoom calls with the interventionist;
    • Ability to be in a private area of their home, away from the patient or others, during the 4 ART sessions; and
    • Reside in Florida.

Exclusion Criteria - Part 2:

  • Participants whose loved one (care recipient) has died prior to initiation of ART.

Eligibility last updated 7/27/22. Questions regarding updates should be directed to the study team contact.

Participating Mayo Clinic locations

Study statuses change often. Please contact the study team for the most up-to-date information regarding possible participation.

Mayo Clinic Location Status Contact

Jacksonville, Fla.

Mayo Clinic principal investigator

Cindy Tofthagen, Ph.D., R.N.

Open for enrollment

Contact information:

Katharine Sheffield M.A., CCRP

Sheffield.Katharine@mayo.edu

More information

Publications

Publications are currently not available

Additional contact information

Cancer-related trials contact form

Phone: 855-776-0015 (toll-free)

International patient clinical studies questions