AFA Research Department
Our Flagship Study:
Exploring the Biopsychosocial Impact of Dementia Caregiving on Spousal Caregivers’ Health Outcomes
Your caregiving story matters.
Help us improve care for families like yours.
Learn more about the study, or register today:
AFA Research Department: Advancing Social, Behavioral, and Translational Science to Transform Alzheimer’s Care
Who We Are
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is a leading national nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, and their families, receive the support, education, care, and resources they need to live with dignity and purpose. Founded in 2002, AFA serves millions of people each year through its innovative programs, nationwide screening initiatives, dementia care training, and groundbreaking research.
At the core of our mission lies a deep commitment to science-driven, person-centered progress. Our Research Department was established to expand the national conversation around Alzheimer’s disease to include not just biological mechanisms, but also the social, behavioral, and translational dimensions of dementia care — the very human factors that impact daily living, long-term outcomes, and public health.
Our Focus: Social, Behavioral & Translational Research
Unlike traditional biomedical research that concentrates primarily on pathology or pharmaceutical interventions, AFA’s research team prioritizes real-world, human-centered studies. Our work centers on the intersections of caregiving, health equity, aging, psychological resilience, and dementia-related burden. We are especially committed to exploring:
- How caregiving affects the mental, physical, and cognitive health of families, especially spouses and long-term partners;
- The sociocultural factors that shape disparities in dementia care, diagnosis, and support;
- Translational research that bridges science, policy, and community action;
- Inclusive, evidence-informed interventions that can be applied across diverse populations.
Current Flagship Study: Exploring the Biopsychosocial Impact of Dementia Caregiving on Spousal Caregivers’ Health Outcomes
About the Study
This landmark nationwide research study, led by AFA’s Research Department, examines how the chronic stressors associated with caregiving for a spouse or long-term partner with dementia affect the caregiver’s own health — physically, mentally, and cognitively.
Using a mixed-methods design, the study collects both qualitative narratives and quantitative health indicators from participants across the United States. Specific aims include assessing:
- Physiological outcomes such as allostatic load, sleep disruption, and inflammatory markers;
- Mental health indicators including anxiety, depression, and caregiver grief;
- Cognitive function, examining whether sustained caregiving stress contributes to decline in attention, memory, or executive function;
- Social determinants of health, including race, income, language, geographic access, and support systems.
This research is guided by the biopsychosocial model, which recognizes that health outcomes are shaped not only by biology, but also by psychological stressors and social environments. The findings will inform national policy, targeted interventions, and support service development for spousal caregivers.
Meet Our Leader: Dr. Donna De Levante Raphael, Ph.D.
Dr. Donna De Levante Raphael, Ph.D., serves as the Director of Research at the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. A nationally recognized scholar in gerontology, public health, and Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. de Levante Raphael brings almost two decades of experience in translational aging research, dementia education, and caregiver health.
Her leadership will ensure that AFA’s research initiatives are rigorous, inclusive, and deeply responsive to the needs of under-represented and under-resourced communities, particularly to populations who have historically been left out of Alzheimer’s research.
Learn more about Dr. de Levant Raphael and our research team »
Why Social and Behavioral Studies Matter
Dementia is not just a neurological condition, it is a social, emotional, and public health challenge. Understanding how dementia impacts caregivers and communities is essential for:
- Designing equitable care systems that address disparities in diagnosis and support;
- Developing community-based interventions that reduce stress, improve coping, and delay institutionalization;
- Identifying at-risk populations for proactive, preventive care;
- Transforming clinical practice by integrating the lived experiences of families into care delivery models.
Participating in social and behavioral research allows us to build a future where Alzheimer’s care is informed by science, but grounded in humanity.
Why Participate in AFA Research Studies?
Participating in AFA-sponsored studies is a meaningful way to shape the future of Alzheimer’s care. Benefits include:
For Participants
- Contribute to national research that informs Alzheimer’s policy, care, and innovation;
- Amplify the voice of people living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia, and caregivers, especially those who are underrepresented in mainstream science;
- Gain personal insight into your own health through structured assessments;
- Access resources, and community connections during and after the study;
- Feel empowered, knowing your experiences are part of something bigger, improving care for generations to come.
For The Community
- Data from AFA studies helps build inclusive and culturally sensitive programs, policies, and health literacy tools for caregivers;
- Findings may drive legislation and funding for caregiver support and mental health;
- Our work contributes to a national movement for health equity and aging justice.
Join Us in Advancing Dementia Research
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America invites caregivers, clinicians, and community leaders to partner with us in advancing impactful, inclusive, and translational dementia research.
Your voice, your story, and your participation are vital to building a future where no family navigates Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia alone.
About the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA)
Founded in 2002, AFA is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to provide support, services, and education to individuals, families, and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, and to fund research toward better treatment and a cure. AFA offers a free National Helpline, memory screening programs, dementia care training for professionals, and family support across all 50 states.