Can an online happiness course ease the burden of Alzheimer's caregiving?

NCT ID NCT03610698

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Northwestern University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested an online program called LEAF that teaches positive emotion skills to family caregivers of people with Alzheimer's. 386 caregivers were randomly assigned to a Zoom group, a self-guided group, or a control group. The goal was to see if learning these skills could reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while boosting positive feelings.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: online positive emotion skills training (LEAF program)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a practical, low-cost way to improve mental health and reduce burden for Alzheimer's caregivers.
What could go wrong: This is a completed behavioral study, not a drug trial. Benefits may be modest and depend on caregiver engagement. Results may not apply to all caregivers.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Alzheimer disease Psychological Well-Being

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CAREGIVERS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Northwestern University

Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States

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