Use of contactless sleep technology for measuring sleep in people living with dementia and mild cognitive impairment
This study aims to discover if a contactless bedside device can effectively measure sleep in people with dementia or mild memory problems (MCI). Many people with these conditions struggle with sleep, which affects their overall health and the lives of those who care for them. Currently, doctors often rely on carers to notice and report sleep issues, but this can be difficult. This study hopes to find a practical way to get accurate sleep information. We will also ask carers and doctors what they think about using this device and the sleep information it provides. By understanding sleep better, we hope to help doctors create more personalised care plans to improve sleep for individuals with dementia and MCI.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Sleep problems are common in people living with dementia and memory issues, often called mild cognitive impairment (MCI). These sleep troubles can make everyday life harder for them and can also affect the people who look after them. When someone has trouble sleeping, it can impact their health and general wellbeing.
Currently, it can be tricky for doctors to understand and help with sleep problems in these conditions. Doctors often depend on family members or professional carers to notice and report any issues with sleep. However, carers might not always spot these problems, especially if they are busy or don't live with the person. This can make it difficult to create the best personalised plans to help improve sleep.
This study, called SleepXacT, wants to explore a new way to understand sleep patterns. We're looking at using a special device placed by the bedside that can measure sleep without needing to be worn. We hope to find out if this device is practical and helpful for gathering information about sleep in people with dementia and MCI. We also want to hear from carers about their experience using the device, and from doctors about how useful the sleep information is for making care plans.
Key takeaways
- Exploring a new way to measure sleep in people with dementia/MCI.
- Aims to help doctors create better sleep plans.
- Involves a bedside sleep device and questionnaires.
- Carers play a key role in supporting participants.
- Study lasts 15 weeks, with check-ins at 9 and 15 weeks.
- Your participation could help many people in the future.
Who may be eligible?
The SleepXacT study is looking for people aged 18 or over who have been diagnosed with dementia or mild cognitive impairment. You would also need to have a family member or professional carer who supports you for at least one hour a week and is happy to help with the study.
It's important that you or your carer have noticed some sleep problems, or that you are interested in trying to improve your sleep. You should also be able to understand and speak English well enough to answer some questions. If you can't give consent yourself, a trusted person who knows you well can share what they think you would want.
Unfortunately, you might not be able to join if you are very unwell, unable to communicate, don't have a carer, are receiving end-of-life care, or plan to be away for more than three weeks during the study period.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you aged 18 or older?
- Do you have a diagnosis of dementia or mild cognitive impairment?
- Do you have a family member or professional carer who can help?
- Are you or your carer concerned about your sleep, or interested in improving it?
- Can you understand spoken and written English?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in the SleepXacT study, it will last for about 15 weeks. You will have a special bedside sleep tracker placed in your home or care home to measure your sleep for 3 to 7 days, at the start of the study, at 9 weeks, and again at 15 weeks. A family member, friend, or carer will help set this up.
You and your carer will also complete some questionnaires about your sleep, health, and wellbeing. These will take about 25 minutes each time and will happen at the start, at 9 weeks, and at 15 weeks. Again, a family member, friend, or carer will assist you with these.
Your family member, friend, or carer will also be asked to share their thoughts on using the sleep tracker in a short phone or in-person interview (30 to 60 minutes). You and your carer will also meet with your GP twice to discuss your sleep and create a personalised care plan. The first GP meeting will be 30 minutes, and the second will be 15 minutes.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- -Approximate-, England
Common questions
What is 'contactless sleep technology'?
It's a special device placed by your bed that measures your sleep without touching you or needing to be worn.
What is mild cognitive impairment (MCI)?
MCI means you have some noticeable changes in your memory or thinking abilities, but these changes aren't severe enough to greatly impact your daily life.
How long does the study last?
The study lasts for a total of 15 weeks.
Will I get to keep the sleep tracker?
The study description doesn't say you will keep the device, as it's used for specific measurement periods during the study.
Who is paying for this study?
The study is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).
How to find out more
Bindiya Shenoy
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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