Your experiences today could shape what support looks like tomorrow  

 

If you’re caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia, you know firsthand how complex your role can be as the disease progresses. Whether you’re navigating daily tasks or long-term decisions, knowing your own needs as a caregiver is key to providing better care.   

That’s why a team at the University of New Hampshire is working on a research project to understand how caregiving needs change over time — and how future technologies such as home automation, robotics, and AI can help support them.  

But to truly understand what people in these roles face, the team needs real stories and real insight, from real people. Therefore, they’re inviting caregivers to take part in this long-term, low-commitment study.  

  

What You’ll Be Part Of:  

We understand that caregiving comes with significant responsibilities and limited time. That’s why this long-term Needs Assessment Study is designed to be manageable, requiring just one hour every two months. During each session, researchers will assess your care recipient’s memory, physical health and daily living skills. You’ll get to share your caregiving experience, how things are changing, what challenges you’re facing, and what types of technological supports could truly make a difference.  

“Caregiving can be a source of pride and even joy,” says research lead Dr. Sajay Arthanat. “But at the same time, it comes with day-to-day stressors that shouldn’t be overlooked.”  

  

Why Your Voice Matters for Others and for Yourself:  

Time is precious when you’re a caregiver, so why participate in this study? Nothing meaningful gets built without starting with the people doing the work, every day. By sharing your insights, you’ll be contributing to the next generation of caregiving support for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia.   

“Your contribution, however small you may think it is, will make a meaningful difference down the road,” says Arthanat.  

And while your input will help shape the future, it may also help you better understand your present. Participating in this study will give you a chance to step back and reflect on your caregiving experience, something that can be easy to overlook in the day to day. These conversations may help bring perspective, ease feelings of isolation, and show you that you’re not alone. 

  

What Participation Looks Like:  

  • Who: Caregivers and their care recipients with Alzheimer’s or dementia that are living independently or in a retirement facility   
  • What: Approximately 1-hour of data collection every other month from the caregiver and care recipient over the course of 18 months (9 sessions total)  
  • When: Enrolling now 
  • Where: Located within 50 miles of Durham, NH  
  • Compensation: $100 per session ($900 total)  

 

You’re already doing the hard work of caregiving. Now you have a chance to help shape something that could make it easier for others. We’re listening, and we’re building from there.  

Ready to Learn More? We’d love to talk with you.  

Not a caregiver? Please consider sharing this flyer with caregivers in your network.