Family caregivers of Alzheimer’s and related dementia (ADRD) are more likely to have fewer desirable health behaviors and greater chronic psychological stress. Yet, caregivers are less likely to see a doctor for their own health conditions. Physical activity and sedentary behavior are known modifiable factors of cardiovascular health. Similarly, chronic stress leads to disturbances in autonomic nervous system, leading to cardiovascular diseases.  

Shivangi is interested in exploring utility of wearable markers such physical activity and heart rate variability for personalized health monitoring among ADRD caregivers. Shivangi’s research aims to identify the associations of wearable device measured physical activity, sedentary behavior, and heart rate variability with clinically meaningful risk factors (blood pressure, fasting glucose, lipids, and BMI) and psychological disorders among ADRD caregivers. Her research will inform future interventions and researchers on designing tailored physical activity and psychological interventions for this population. The long-term implication would be the development of wearables for regular remote monitoring of ADRD caregiver’s health by clinicians and personalized health self-monitoring and promotion. Stress-biomarker workshop will provide her expertise in stress measurement as a unique skill set that will be a valuable asset in her career in physical activity and caregiver research.