Effectiveness of interventions that assist caregivers to support people with dementia living in the community: a systematic review

Psychosocial intervention for carers of people with dementia: What components are most effective and when? A systematic review of systematic reviews

“…Nature of the interventions Four reviews, all rated as moderate quality, reported on information and support interventions (Chien et al, 2011;Parker et al, 2008;Pinquart and Sorensen, 2006;Thompson et al, 2007). Three reviews (Chien et al, 2011;Parker et al, 2008;Pinquart and Sorensen, 2006) examined support only interventions.…”

“…Three reviews (Chien et al, 2011;Parker et al, 2008;Pinquart and Sorensen, 2006) examined support only interventions. The definition of support groups used by Chien et al (2011) included mutual support groups, educational psychology groups and educational training groups but excluded groups organised on the internet, by telephone or in the community.…”

“…The definition of support groups used by Chien et al (2011) included mutual support groups, educational psychology groups and educational training groups but excluded groups organised on the internet, by telephone or in the community. Parker et al (2008) defined support interventions as those that provide support for problems that inhibit caregiving and provide opportunities for sharing personal feelings and overcome social isolation. Pinquart and Sorensen (2006) used a similar definition of 'general support'.…”

“…Nature of the intervention Seven reviews, all rated as moderate quality, reported on educational/ psychoeducational interventions (Elvish et al, 2013;Marim et al, 2013;Olazaran et al, 2010;Parker et al, 2008;Peacock and Forbes, 2003;Pinquart and Sorensen, 2006;Thompson et al, 2007). Four reviews used the term 'psychoeducational' to classify interventions.…”

“…Elvish et al (2013) also included the aim of exploration of coping skills for managing emotional difficulties arising as a primary consequence of dementia. Parker et al (2008) and Pinquart and Sorensen (2006) both specified that support may be part of psychoeducational interventions but that it was secondary to educational content. Pinquart and Sorensen (2006) also specified that psychoeducational interventions may include an active role by participants (e.g.…”