Quasi‐experimental evaluation of an educational model for dementia caregivers

Abstract

SUMMARYDementia caregivers are known to be distressed and may be helped by psychoeducational interventions. We investigated the effectiveness of one model of intervention comprising a structured package of six sessions of training, focusing on education, stress management and problem behaviour management in a group setting. Three groups of caregivers were compared--those who had completed ( N = 33) or partially completed (N = 22) training and a control group ( N = 26)-on measures of psychological stress, burden, satisfaction with life, well-being and knowledge. There were no significant differences in outcome between the three groups. We conclude that, with methodological qualifications, this quasi-experimental study of one model of training was not empirically effective. Interventions for caregivers should be tailored to individual needs from a range of techniques encompassing psychological and practical strategies.

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