Supporting Caregivers. Nurturing Well-Being.
OT-CARES
Occupational Therapy – Caregiver Assistance, Regulation, and Emotional Support
Digital Wellness Journal
About OT-CARES
OT-CARES is a researcher-developed, occupational therapy-informed digital wellness program for unpaid family caregivers of people living with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias (ADRD). Through brief lessons, reflection, guided journaling, and simple wellness activities, OT-CARES is designed to support stress management, emotional regulation, self-care, and overall well-being.
Your Four OT-CARES Modules
Module 1
Understanding Caregiver Stress
Learn how caregiver stress can affect your emotions, body, and daily life.
Estimated time: 20-30 minutes
Module 2
Mindfulness & Emotional Regulation
Learn simple ways to notice strong emotions, manage stress, and respond more calmly during difficult moments.
Estimated time: 20-30 minutes
Module 3
Self-Care & Meaningful Occupations
Explore simple ways to care for yourself and make time for activities that bring you joy, comfort, or meaning
Estimated time: 20-30 minutes
Module 4
Building Resilience & Moving Forward
Recognize your strengths, create a simple self-care plan, and choose wellness habits you want to continue.
Estimated time: 20-30 minutes
Wellness Pathway
Every module follows the same four steps.
- Learn
- Reflect
- Journal
- Recharge
[ 01 ]
Learn
Learn simple information about caregiver stress, emotions, self-care, and well-being.
[ 02 ]
Reflect
Pause and think about your feelings, experiences, and what you may need.
[ 03 ]
Journal
Use a short writing prompt to express your thoughts and feelings.
[ 04 ]
Recharge
Try a simple activity to help you relax, reset, and care for yourself.
Your OT-CARES Timeline
Each OT-CARES module takes about 20-30 minutes to complete. The four modules are designed to be completed over 4 weeks. If needed, you may use an optional 1-week grace period, for up to 5 weeks total.
ENROLLMENT
Screening & Consent
Complete eligibility screening, review and sign informed consent, and receive individual OT-CARES access.
WEEK 1 - MODULE 1
Understanding Caregiver Stress
Complete Module 1 (about 20-30 minutes), guided reflection, and journaling at your own pace.
WEEK 2 - MODULE 2
Mindfulness & Emotional Regulation
Complete Module 2 (about 20-30 minutes) and practice selected mindfulness or emotional-regulation strategies.
WEEK 3 - MODULE 3
Self-Care & Meaningful Occupations
Complete Module 3 (about 20-30 minutes) and reflect on self-care, balance, and meaningful activities.
WEEK 4 - MODULE 4
Building Resilience & Moving Forward
Complete Module 4 (about 20-30 minutes), then complete post-program PSS-4, ZBI-12, and feedback questionnaire.
OPTIONAL 1-WEEK GRACE
Completion Window
Use up to one additional week, if needed, to finish an outstanding module or post-program measures. Total participation may extend to 5 weeks.
Self-paced does not mean open-ended: participants work within the 4-week completion window.
Caregiver Resources & Emergency Help
Caregiving can sometimes feel stressful or overwhelming. OT-CARES includes a Participant Resource Guide with caregiver education, support services, self-care reminders, and crisis resources.
Participant Access
OT-CARES is a restricted-access research program. Enrolled participants will receive their own individual login after completing eligibility screening, informed consent, and required pre-program steps.