Abstract
ObjectiveStudies have shown preliminary support for mindfulness-based interventions benefitting people with dementia and their caregivers. However, most studies focus on these two groups separately. This study examined whether it would be possible and beneficial for people with dementia and their caregiver to jointly undergo an adjusted Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) training, named TANDEM.MethodsThe 8-week MBSR training was adjusted based on a literature review and interviews with experts (clinicians and mindfulness trainers). Seven couples (a person with early-stage dementia and their caregiver) participated together in the 8-week TANDEM program. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted after completion. Questionnaires (administered before and after the intervention) assessed the primary outcomes of quality of life and psychological distress (stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms). Secondary outcomes were mindfulness, self-compassion, positive mental health, worrying, and perceived burden (for caregivers).ResultsAll participants completed the program and reported beneficial effects (relaxation, awareness, acceptance, and resilience). Most managed to integrate exercises into their daily lives and planned to continue their practice. Participating in a group was considered valuable and supportive. Furthermore, it was appreciated that participants could follow the training together (as a couple). The quantitative results showed a small effect on increased quality of life for caregivers. No substantial decrease in psychological distress was apparent. Caregivers displayed a large increase in mindfulness.ConclusionThe results of this mixed-methods study suggest that an adjusted mindfulness program is feasible and well-received among couples of persons with early-stage dementia and their caregiver, warranting further research in this area.
Highlights
Dementia is a worldwide public health priority that affects 35.6 million people worldwide and this number will double in 2030 (World Health Organization [WHO], 2012)
This study showed that participating in the TANDEM training, an adjusted Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), was feasible for person with dementia (PwD) and their partners
Participating in a group together with their partner was considered very valuable and had a positive influence on their relationship. These results suggest that the training provides tools to both PwD and caregiver to cope with dementia and to support each other
Summary
Dementia is a worldwide public health priority that affects 35.6 million people worldwide and this number will double in 2030 (World Health Organization [WHO], 2012). Receiving a diagnosis of dementia has a major impact on psychological wellbeing, both for the persons with dementia as well as the informal caregivers (Bamford et al, 2004). Often the partner or a relative, fulfill an important role in the care for a person with dementia (PwD). Caring for a PwD is associated with higher levels of distress, illness and a decreased quality of life (Schulz and Martire, 2004). Caregivers have a high risk of developing a depressive disorder (Cuijpers, 2005). It is crucial for both caregivers and PwDs to learn to adapt to the changes the diagnosis of dementia brings and learn to cope with the physical, emotional and social challenges they face
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
