Indigenous inclusion in the Canadian therapeutic platform trial for multidomain interventions to prevent dementia

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundThe Canadian Therapeutic Platform Trial for Multidomain Interventions to Prevent Dementia (CTU) is Canada’s largest national dementia research initiative, evaluating the effectiveness of a web‐based multimodal program in reducing dementia risk among older adults. To date, CTU has not included Indigenous perspectives, culture, or context in the development of the intervention or study design, and therefore does not reflect the priorities and needs of Indigenous communities.MethodIn consultation with Indigenous community partners, a content analysis of CTU methodologies is currently underway to identify areas for improved cultural relevancy within the program’s modules.ResultBased on findings from the content analysis, an Indigenous adaptation of the program will be developed and piloted in Indigenous communities in Canada. General suggestions on how to improve CTU from a cultural perspective will also be provided to inform future CTU trials.ConclusionThis community‐driven research will help shape current and future dementia prevention trials and ensure cultural relevancy in the development of community‐based preventative strategies. Further, it will help ensure that culturally safe and trauma‐informed dementia prevention tools are available to Indigenous peoples in Canada.