Neighborhood-based Physical and Social Activity for Older Black Caregivers and People Living With Dementia

The Sharing History through Active Reminiscence and Photo-imagery (SHARP) Program engages triads (primary caregiver, person living with dementia, caregiver support person) in walking and social reminiscence, using a group tablet to access routes and historical neighborhood images serving as conversational prompts. Focus is on adapting the SHARP model to older Black dementia caregivers and on caregiver physical and mental health. Study technology measures sleep and daily step count. Weekly online surveys assess health status. Pre-post assessments measure cognitive function and mental health. Focus groups assess adaptation needs, feasibility and acceptance, and cultural significance.

Inclusion Criteria:Self-identified African American (caregiver and PWD)Caregivers and PWD Age > 55 years old; caregiver support person aged >18 years oldCaregiver and PWD reside or resided for >10 years in Portland's historically Black neighborhoods (to be familiar with Memory Markers about this area)Able to ambulate independently for at least 45 minutes without the use of mobility aidsMeeting Cognition Criteriaa. Participants with MCI or early-stage/mild dementia will meet criteria consistent with those defined by Jak et al. and with the criteria outlined by the NIA-Alzheimer's Association workgroupCognitive function allows independent (or minimally assisted) travel to and from walk locationsCaregivers must have in-home reliable broadband internet (for weekly online surveys).Ability to read, speak, and understand English - all participantsIn general good health for their age (e.g., stable cardiovascular disease, stable diabetes mellitus, no significant nervous system disease).Subject must have adequate vision, hearing and language abilities to complete assessments.Exclusion Criteria:Self-reported or clinically diagnosed late-stage dementiaSignificant disease of the central nervous systemSeverely depressed (CES-D score > 16), significantly symptomatic psychiatric disorderAdvanced cardiovascular disease that would make walking difficult, including history of congestive heart failureUnstable insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, received diagnosis Type 1 Diabetes, started insulin within past 3 months, hospitalized for hypoglycemia within past 6 months.