Managing Stress for Caregivers of People with Dementia
Author Information
Author(s): Vranceanu Ana-Maria, Santiago Natalia Giraldo, O’Donnel Arden, Ritchie Christine
Primary Institution: Massachusetts General Hospital
Hypothesis
The MASC program will improve stress management for caregivers of people living with dementia who exhibit behavioral symptoms.
Conclusion
The MASC program was found to be feasible and acceptable, leading to improvements in stress, depression, and quality of life among caregivers.
Supporting Evidence
- Qualitative analyses highlighted the need for the MASC program.
- Quantitative analyses supported the need for the program and its conceptual model.
- 89% of eligible caregivers agreed to participate in the program.
- 92% of participants attended more than 4 out of 6 sessions.
- 70% of participants reported at least moderate satisfaction with the program.
- Participation in MASC was associated with improvements in stress, depression, and quality of life.
Takeaway
This study shows that a new program can help caregivers of people with dementia feel less stressed and more supported.
Methodology
Mixed methods study with qualitative and quantitative analyses, followed by an open pilot with exit interviews.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and was limited to caregivers who endorsed stress from behavioral symptoms.
Participant Demographics
Caregivers of people living with dementia, primarily from Massachusetts.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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