ABSTRACT
Theories supporting the existence of a use-dependent neuroplasticity in the older brain were used to guide this pilot study. A repeated-measures randomized design was used to test the effectiveness of a multimodal (Taiji exercises, cognitive-behavioral therapies, support group) intervention on cognitive functioning, physical functioning, and behavioral outcomes in persons with dementia. The treatment group (n = 24 persons with dementia) participated in a 40-week intervention, with outcomes assessed at 20 and 40 weeks to assess optimal treatment length. Control group subjects (n = 19 persons with dementia) received attention-control educational programs. At 20 weeks, differences between groups were found for mental ability and self-esteem, with gains in balance being evident. Also, stability in depression and physical health were evident at 20 and 40 weeks for treatment group subjects. Continued improvement in outcomes was not observed at 40 weeks. However, findings support further testing of the intervention along with potential for achieving positive outcomes in early-stage dementia.
Subject(s)
Adaptation, Psychological , Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/methods , Dementia/therapy , Psychotherapy/methods , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Cognition , Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/statistics & numerical data , Combined Modality Therapy , Dementia/nursing , Dementia/psychology , Depression/nursing , Depression/psychology , Depression/therapy , Female , Humans , Male , Pilot Projects , Psychiatric Status Rating Scales , Psychological Tests/statistics & numerical data , Psychotherapy/statistics & numerical data , Self Concept , Severity of Illness Index , Time Factors , Treatment OutcomeABSTRACT
Few studies have tested the effects of nonpharmacological interventions designed for people in early-stage dementia on the family caregiver. This study tested a multimodal intervention (Taiji exercise and support group) for people with dementia, with some treatment group caregivers choosing to co-participate. Control group caregivers participated in educational programs. Outcome measures included role stress (Relatives Stress Scale [RSS]) and quality of the relationship with the person with dementia. Trends toward positive effects for participating caregivers were found for overall role stress and the Personal Distress subscale and quality of the relationship with the person with dementia. In comparing outcomes between the total treatment group and the control group, treatment group caregivers rated one RSS subscale, Negative Feelings toward the Care Recipient, significantly lower (more positive) than control group caregivers. A within-group difference was found for the quality of the relationship for control group caregivers (increased negativity), with no increase in treatment group caregivers. Findings support the potential benefits of the intervention for both participating and nonparticipating caregivers.