Study

The Fitness, Aging, and Stress (FAST) Study- San Francisco

Eligibility Requirements:

We are seeking 80 men and women between the ages of 50 and 75 who provide care to a family member with Alzheimer’s disease or a dementia-related disorder on an ongoing, daily basis. Caregiving adults who participate in the study will receive a free 6-month membership to their local YMCA.

About the Study:

We know that caring for a loved one can be challenging and stressful. The ultimate goal of the FAST Study is to support the health and well-being of people who provide care.

Purpose:

The UCSF FAST Study examines the relationship between physical activity, health, and aging among family caregivers.  We are examining whether increasing aerobic exercise levels can increase cellular markers of health, improve exercise capacity and blood pressure, and improve psychological well-being over six months in currently inactive caregiving adults. This study offers a free gym membership along with coaching to help you become more physically active.

What is Involved:

Caregivers who are in the exercise intervention group will be asked to increase their activity levels to 150 minutes a week, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, for 6 full months. Caregivers in the control group will wait 6 months to receive their gym membership and will be asked to maintain their current levels of activity.

All participants will complete surveys, have their blood drawn at UCSF’s clinic, and undergo a fitness test at the beginning of the study and 6 months later when the study is over. 

Study participants will complete 2 health assessments at UCSF Parnassus Hospital (including a fasting blood draw, fitness testing, and body measurements), a week of stretching, and complete study questionnaires. Qualifying participants receive up to $300 for participating.
 SELECT A SITE BELOW  
Age:
50 to 75
Duration:
Visits:
Study Type:
Caregiver Studies