Enhancing Triadic Communication About Cognition for Older Adults With Alzheimer's Disease or Related Dementias Facing a Cancer Management Decision

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER · Mar 8, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new way to help older adults with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias who are facing decisions about cancer treatment. The focus is on improving communication between patients, their care partners (like family members or friends), and their doctors. The researchers believe that by using a special program called COACH-Cog, patients and their care partners will feel more supported in making decisions that consider their cognitive challenges and personal goals. The trial will involve around 130 patient-care partner pairs and 45 oncology doctors, and it aims to see if this program can enhance support for both patients and their caregivers while improving the overall quality of care.

To participate in this trial, patients must be 65 years or older, have both a diagnosis of dementia and cancer, and have a care partner who can join them in the study. They should also be able to read and understand English, and be able to give their consent for participation. Care partners must be at least 18 years old and also able to read and understand spoken English. If you or someone you know fits these criteria and is interested, this study could provide valuable support during a challenging time.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• PATIENTS:
• Patient Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Be age 65 or older
• • 2. Have a clinical diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or related dementia (ADRD \[Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia, or dementia of unknown subtype\])
• • 3. Have a clinical diagnosis of cancer (any type or stage)
• • 4. Anticipate a potential decision about cancer-related management, as confirmed by the patient's primary medical oncology clinician.
• • 5. Have a care partner willing and able to participate in the study
• • 6. Are able to read and understand English. The communication coaching session will be delivered in English, thus necessitating this requirement.
• • 7. Be able to provide informed consent (as measured by UBACC) or have a Legally Authorized Representative to provide informed consent
• Patient Exclusion Criteria:
• • Patient exclusion criteria: None
• CARE PARTNER:
• Care partner inclusion criteria:
• • 1. Age 18 or over
• • 2. Able to read and understand spoken English
• • 3. Able to provide informed consent
• Care partner exclusion criteria:
• • None
• ONCOLOGY CLINICIAN:
• Oncology clinician inclusion criteria:
• • 1. Oncology clinicians affiliated with the Wilmot Cancer Institute
• • 2. Do not intend to move or retire within the next 2 years.
• Oncology clinician exclusion criteria:
• • None