P19: Effects of a Post-diagnostic Support Programme on self-efficacy among persons with dementia and family members

Abstract

Background:Persons newly diagnosed with dementia and their family member is imperative often experience uncertainty and inadequate support. This study aims to evaluate a post-diagnostic support programme guided by the 5 Pillars Model proposed by Alzheimer Scotland on the self-efficacy among persons with early dementia and their family members.Methods:A prospective cohort study design was conducted between 2019 and 2022. Subject recruitment was conducted in four non-government organizations. A multi-domain empowerment programme, covering various aspects about dementia knowledge, management skills, peer support, future decision-making and community resources, was developed. The programme was provided to people newly diagnosed of early dementia in small group format over 2 months and to family members individually through an eLearning platform over 9 months. Self efficacy in dementia management of people with dementia and their family members were measured using Chronic Disease Self-efficacy Scale and Caregiver Self-efficacy Scale (CSES), respectively, whereas caregiving burden was measured using Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI). Study outcomes were measured at baseline, immediate and 6-month post-intervention. Paired t-tests were performed to detect within-subject changes over time.Results:A total of 151 persons with early dementia and 294 family caregivers completed assessment at baseline and follow up. Self-efficacy in dementia management reported by persons with dementia at 6-month post-intervention was significantly higher than that reported at baseline (p = .021) and immediate post-intervention (i.e. 2-month follow up) (p = .006). Family members reported a significantly higher CSES score (p < .001) and subscale scores in thoughts (p = .001) and disruptive behaviour management (p = .001) at 9-month follow up, but significant reduction in caregiving burden (p < .001) was only noted among those who perceived higher burden than the local norms at baseline (ZBI score ≥ 25, n = 110).Discussion:This study provides empirical evidence that post-diagnostic support would empower persons with early dementia and their family members on adapting the impacts brought by dementia. Further study on examining the longer term effects on care outcomes and health service utilisation would be valuable.