A new study, led by IU School of Nursing Professor Dr. Yvonne Lu, aims to better support adults with memory concerns and their chosen study partners. The study, formally titled: "Promoting Reengagement in Meaningful Activity (PRIMA)" offers Indiana residents and their study partners three months of skill-building opportunities to help cope with memory concerns and promote better health outcomes.
Dr. Lu stated, "We want to help a population of people that may be afraid of the stigma of a formal diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment, as well as those who may perceive their memory concerns as normal aging."
In the United States, 12% to 18% of adults over 60 years of age experience mild cognitive impairment. According to the Alzheimer's Association, mild cognitive impairment causes changes that are serious enough to be noticed by the person affected and by family members and friends - but do not affect a person's ability to carry out daily activities. Dr. Lu said these patients are aware their memory has changed, but over 50%, or even as high as 60%, never seek medical help.
Dr. Lu's work aims to address these concerns through the PRIMA study, a skill-building program aimed to identify ways help patients manage symptoms and stay involved in the activities they enjoy. Lu and her team will also encourage adults with memory changes and their study partners (i.e., spouse, family members, or friend) work together to address their concerns.
"Family members often tell me they wish they could have talked to their loved ones about their future plans and their wishes for treatment before it was too late," she says.
Lu's program, which is funded by the National Institute of Nursing Research, requires study participants and their chosen study partners to take part in seven phone calls scheduled at the participants' convenience.
The study is open to Indiana residents aged 59 and older who have concerns about their memory and decision-making. Dr. Lu says, "We are not focused on diagnosis…We are using problem-solving to help them find solutions or overcome challenges related to memory changes."
We are using problem-solving to help them find solutions or overcome challenges related to memory changes.
Study participants must be able to read and speak English and must be supported by study partners, who can be spouse, adult family members or friends who also speak English.
"North, south, east, west - everyone in Indiana is welcome," says Lu.
If you are interested in learning more about the PRIMA study, contact Amy Katz, Clinical Research Coordinator, PRIMA project manager, at 317.274.4330 or prima@iu.edu