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Caregivers of people living with dementia face strain, reduced self-care, and poorer health status. However, research examining the links among those outcomes is limited. We explored the association between caregiver strain and the impact of caregiving on health status and identified the mediating role of self-care difficulty in this association. In the national caregiving dataset "Caregiving in the U.S. 2020," we included 312 caregivers in this study. Demographics, caregiving characteristics, a composite scale for caregiver strain, and single-item questions for the impact of caregiving on health status and self-care difficulty were used. Descriptive statistics and mediation analysis were conducted. Results revealed that higher caregiver strain was associated with higher self-care difficulty (OR 2.054, p < .001) and negative health changes due to caregiving (OR 2.719, p < .001). Self-care difficulty partially mediated this association. These results indicated the need to explore interventions or resources to offer caregivers to encourage their self-care awareness and activities., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The author(s) declare(s) no potential conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose/objectives: We aim to explore Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes for caregiving training services and their potential impacts on caregivers of people living with dementia., Description of the Project/program: In response to the growing need for support for caregivers of people living with physical and mental health issues, CPT codes for caregiving training services will be activated for the calendar year 2024. These codes cover (1) family group behavior management and modification training services and (2) caregiver training for techniques to help patients maintain their quality of life. Caregivers will access such training support through the CPT codes provided by treating practitioners. The duration of training will vary by code., Outcome: Implementing CPT codes for caregiver training services highlights the vital role of caregivers in patient care. This support may improve their skills and communication with healthcare providers. However, timing and accessibility in care delivery need clarification, especially for caregivers of people living with dementia. Regular skill assessment and culturally competent care are essential. Before providing the service, provider training may also promote person-centered care, benefiting patients and their caregivers., Conclusion: Activating CPT codes for caregiving training services may enhance caregivers' support and skills, including dementia care., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

The COVID-19 pandemic has placed a tremendous burden on all of society, particularly among vulnerable populations such as people living with dementia and their caregivers. Efforts to understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on those living with dementia are crucial towards addressing needs during the pandemic and beyond. This qualitative descriptive study includes a thematic analysis of 6938 tweets from March 17-24, 2020, that included direct or indirect references to COVID-19 and at least one of the following terms/hashtags: Alzheimer, #Alzheimer, dementia, and #dementia. Five themes were identified: continuing care, finding support, preventing spread of COVID-19, maintaining human rights, and the impact of the pandemic on the daily lives of people living with dementia. People living with dementia and their families faced unique challenges related to caregiving, maintaining social connectedness while trying to follow public health guidelines, and navigating the convergence of COVID-19 and dementia-related stigma. Data from Twitter can be an effective means to understand the impacts of public health emergencies among those living with dementia and how to address their needs moving forward by highlighting gaps in practice, services, and research.

Background and Objectives: People with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) exhibit losses in daily function, as well as behavioral and psychological symptoms, that place a great deal of burden on family caregivers and exert a major influence on the quality of life of these individuals and their families. Despite years of intervention research in the field, there are few studies related to the impact of providing care for a person with ADRD on the family as the unit of analysis. While numerous findings have reported the effects of the chronic stress of caregiving for an individual, analysis of family quality of life is a concept that has been generally overlooked in the ADRD field. The purpose of the present study was to develop and test the Family Quality of Life in Dementia (FQOL-D) scale., Research Design and Methods: Face validity was obtained via a Delphi survey of a multidisciplinary team of dementia providers and researchers; initial psychometric evaluation of the instrument was obtained via family respondents (N = 244)., Results: Internal consistency and reliability were established for the instrument. The FQOL-D scale exhibited excellent factorability and concurrent validity with existing scales assessing family psychosocial measures., Discussion and Implications: The initial psychometric testing of the FQOL-D instrument is favorable. Additional use of the FQOL-D instrument in health care settings is warranted to evaluate further the clinical utility of the instrument., (© The Author(s) 2020. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Gerontological Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Aim: The aim of this study is to develop a Smarthealth system of monitoring, modelling, and interactive recommendation solutions (for caregivers) for in-home dementia patient care that focuses on caregiver-patient relationships., Design: This descriptive study employs a single-group, non-randomized trial to examine functionality, effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptability of the novel Smarthealth system., Methods: Thirty persons with Alzheimer's Disease or related dementia and their family caregivers (N = 30 dyads) will receive and install Smarthealth technology in their home. There will be a 1-month observation phase for collecting baseline mood states and a 2-month implementation phase when caregivers will receive stress management techniques for each detected, negative mood state. Caregivers will report technique implementation and usefulness, sent via Ecological Momentary Assessment system to the study-provided smartphone. Caregivers will provide daily, self-reported mood and health ratings. Instruments measuring caregiver assessment of disruptive behaviours and their effect on caregivers; caregiver depressive symptoms, anxiety and stress; caregiver strain; and family functioning will be completed at baseline and 3 months. The study received funding in 2018 and ethics board approval in 2019., Discussion: This study will develop and test novel in-home technology to improve family caregiving relationships. Results from this study will help develop and improve the Smarthealth recommendation system and determine its usefulness, feasibility, and acceptability for persons with dementia and their family caregiver., Impact: The Smarthealth technology discussed will provide in-home stress reduction resources at a time when older adults may be experiencing increasingly high rates of isolation and anxiety and caregiver dyads may be experiencing high levels of relationship strain., Trial Registration: This study was registered with Clinical Trials.gov (Identifier NCT04536701)., (© 2021 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

BACKGROUND: Alzheimer's disease and related dementias are irreversible, progressive brain disorders that slowly destroy memory, language, problem solving, and cognition. In the United States, dementia is the fifth leading cause of death for people age 65 years and older. Early diagnosis could have important benefits stigma related to dementia remains a significant impediment to diagnosis, treatment, and accessing services. While a growing body of research documents the existence and negative outcomes of stigma, less is known about how dementia-related stigma produces ill effects. AIMS: The purpose of this study was to use qualitative methods to explore how stigma manifests within families from the perspective of family caregivers of people with dementia. METHOD: Using a grounded theory approach, we interviewed 13 family caregivers of people with dementia. RESULTS: Shame emerged as the central theme experienced by family caregivers of people with dementia. Attempting to manage shame, produced three categories of responses: (1) silencing and not calling attention to the symptoms, (2) concealing the diagnosis, and (3) shunning and avoiding contact. CONCLUSIONS: Shame may be an underlying mechanism by which stigma is enacted and perpetuated, resulting in caregivers' isolation and delay in access to diagnostic and supportive services. Efforts to dispel the misconception that dementia is a shameful disease may be one way to diminish stigma.

The purpose of this study was to gain a greater understanding of the experiences of African American daughters caring for parents with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia (ADRD). In this secondary analysis of a subset ( N = 12) of the sample from a previous study, daughters averaged 54 years of age and were caring for parents with moderate to severe ADRD. Results revealed two main categories: Caregiver Concerns and Caregiver Coping. Subcategories included challenging behaviors, social aspects, integration, and family culture and values. Findings offer insight into cultural factors relevant to practice along with research recommendations.

Individuals living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) often exhibit behavioral and psychological symptoms of distress that can contribute to the strain experienced by their family caregivers. This strain can increase levels of stress for family caregivers and reduce quality of life, which can have a negative impact on physical health and wellbeing for both the caregiver and the person with ADRD. This study used blogs written by family caregivers of persons with ADRD to explore self-care strategies practiced by these caregivers. Using a qualitative thematic analysis, seven themes related to self-care approaches used by caregivers of persons with ADRD were identified: (1) health and wellness; (2) altruism and activism; (3) reminiscing and legacy building; (4) social support; (5) information exchange; (6) organization and planning; and (7) spirituality. By understanding the ways in which caregivers for someone with ADRD practice self-care, interventions and services can be developed in an effort to improve caregiver quality of life.

The nature and outcome of family caregiving is different for various racial and ethnic groups. The purpose of the current study was to use qualitative methods to examine and characterize family networks of African American family caregivers (N = 26) who provided care to family members with dementia (N = 18). Researchers used data generated from a parent study that addressed family involvement in health promotion activities for African American older adults with dementia. Data were analyzed using sociograms and thematic analysis. Three themes that characterized African American family caregiving networks were identified: (a) Complexity, (b) Familism, and (c) Religiosity. Findings suggest that narrowly defining family caregivers as a dyad of a caregiver and care recipient does not reflect how these family networks function. A better understanding of the complex functioning of these networks may help explain physical and psychological well-being outcomes for individuals with dementia and their family members. [Res Gerontol Nurs. 2019; 12(1):20-26.]., (Copyright 2019, SLACK Incorporated.)

African Americans are perceived to be least likely of all racial and ethnic groups to prepare for the end of life. However, verbal plans for the end of life are of particular importance to this population and may help understand why they are less likely to possess a formal end-of-life care planning document. The purpose of this study was to determine the number of formal and/or informal end-of-life care plans that existed among a convenience sample of African American older adults with dementia. For this descriptive study, data were collected from African American family caregivers (N = 65) of older adults with dementia. Descriptive statistics were conducted. Caregivers in this sample reported high rates of formal and/or informal end-of-life plans for their care recipients. Agency forms (power of attorney, health-care surrogate, or guardianship forms) had been obtained by 74% of the care recipients, while 63% of them possessed a formal end-of-life care planning document. All combined, 88% of the caregivers possessed at least 1 document or verbal information concerning end-of-life care for their care recipient or at least there was an assigned surrogate. Although limited, these findings reflect more end-of-life planning in this population than previous studies reported and could improve the quality of end-of-life outcomes in this population by giving health-care providers increased understanding of African American end-of-life planning preferences. This may, in turn, help the providers to inform and educate these care recipients and their family caregivers.

The purpose of the current study was to examine understanding of end-of-life (EOL) decision-making terminology among family caregivers of African American older adults with dementia. This qualitative descriptive study was part of a larger mixed-methods study from which a subset of caregivers (n = 18) completed interviews. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analyses guided by methods of qualitative analysis. Caregiver interpretation of EOL decision-making terminology varied between associations before and/or after death. EOL decision making was most often a family decision, based on past experiences, and included reliance on resources such as faith or spirituality and health care providers. Patients and families attach meaning to health care terms that should be aligned with health care providers' understanding of those terms. Results provide insight to improve EOL decision making in this population via tailored interventions for patients, families, and health care providers. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 44(2), 33-40.]., (Copyright 2018, SLACK Incorporated.)

Mind-body therapies frequently derive from Eastern philosophies and are becoming increasingly popular. These therapies, such as meditation, yoga, tai chi, qigong, biofield therapies, and guided imagery, have many reported benefits for improving symptoms and physiological measures associated with various chronic diseases. However, clinical research data concerning the effectiveness of these practices in individuals with dementia have not been evaluated using a synthesis approach. Thus, an integrative review was conducted to evaluate studies examining the efficacy of mind-body therapies as supportive care modalities for management of symptoms experienced by individuals with dementia. Findings from the studies reviewed support the clinical efficacy of mind-body practices in improving behavioral and psychological symptoms exhibited by individuals with dementia. [Res Gerontol Nurs. 2017; 10(6):288-296.]., (Copyright 2017, SLACK Incorporated.)

Background: Non-pharmacological interventions for persons with dementia often rely on family caregivers for implementation. However, caregivers differ in their readiness to use strategies. This study examines dyadic characteristics and treatment-related mechanisms associated with treatment success (high readiness to use strategies) and failure (low readiness to use strategies) at the conclusion of the Advancing Caregiver Training (ACT) intervention., Methods: Caregiver and person with dementia characteristics and treatment-related variables (treatment participation, number and type of strategies introduced and enacted) were examined in 110 caregivers in intervention. Interventionists rated readiness (1=precontemplation; 2=contemplation; 3=preparation; 4=action) of caregivers to use strategies at the final ACT session. Univariate analyses examined dyadic characteristics, and Multiple Analysis of Covariance (MANCOVA) and Analyses of Covariance (ANCOVA) examined treatment-related factors associated with readiness to use strategies at treatment completion., Results: At treatment completion, 28.2% (N=31) scored in pre-action and 71.8% (N=79) at action. Caregivers at pre-action readiness levels were more likely than those at action to be a spouse, report greater financial difficulties and be managing fewer problem behaviors. Although both groups were introduced an equivalent number of non-pharmacological strategies, caregivers at pre-action were less likely than those at action to report enacting strategies., Conclusions: Certain dyadic characteristics and treatment-related factors were associated with treatment failure including financial strain and lack of strategy integration. Findings suggest that developing intervention components to address financial concerns and increase opportunities for practicing strategies and then using them between treatment sessions may be important for caregivers at risk of treatment failure.

Support groups have demonstrated promising outcomes for individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and early-stage dementia (ESD) in previous literature reviews. However, evidence has not been updated since 2007. The current review aimed to update current evidence on the use and effects of support groups for individuals with MCI and ESD and their care partners. A literature search was conducted in seven databases and 18 eligible research articles were retrieved. Support groups showed positive impacts on participant acceptance of cognitive impairment; performance and satisfaction of meaningful activity; resilience; self-help; and care partner coping self-efficacy, perceived support, and preparation and task effectiveness. Findings also revealed that support groups were well accepted by participants and care partners. Few studies included ethnic diversity, limiting the generalizability of findings. Further large-scale studies are needed to confirm the effects of support groups for individuals with MCI and ESD in all populations. [Res Gerontol Nurs. 2017; 10(1):35-51.]., (Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.)

Background: Previous research shows that nonpharmacological strategies may effectively manage behavioral symptoms (agitation, wandering) in persons with dementia and improve caregiver wellbeing. However, strategies depend upon caregivers for their implementation. We examine the impact of caregiver readiness to use nonpharmacological strategies on treatment outcomes., Methods: Data were from a randomized trial involving 110 family caregivers in the treatment group which received nonpharmacologic strategies for managing behavioral symptoms. Interventionists rated caregiver readiness to use nonpharmacologic strategies as pre-action (precontemplation, contemplation, preparation) or action at treatment initiation and conclusion. Caregivers in pre-action and action stages by treatment conclusion (16 weeks) were compared on proximal (frequency of, and caregiver upset and confidence with targeted behaviors) and more distal (caregiver burden and wellbeing) outcomes at 16 and 24-week follow-ups., Results: By treatment conclusion, 28.2% (n = 31) and 71.8% (n = 79) of caregivers were rated at pre-action and action respectively. Means for proximal outcomes differed between the groups at 16 and 24 weeks; those at action showed greater improvement on all proximal and distal outcomes. Hierarchical regressions showed significant relationships of readiness to targeted outcomes. By 24 weeks, caregiver readiness predicted lower frequency estimates of targeted behaviors (β = -.180, p = .041) and higher confidence (β = .27, p = .009). Readiness was not a significant predictor of caregiver burden and wellbeing at 16 or 24 weeks., Conclusion: By treatment conclusion, >25% of participants were not activated to use nonpharmacologic strategies. Activated caregivers reported greater decline in distressing behavioral symptoms, and more confidence than non-activated participants. Activation is needed to impact behavioral management but not other caregiver outcomes. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., (Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.)

Family caregivers of elders with dementia often face the challenging behaviors of nighttime agitation, sleep disturbances, and urinary incontinence. To date, no study has examined the interrelationships of these behaviors in community-dwelling persons. This single group, descriptive study employs wireless body sensors to objectively collect data on nighttime agitation, sleep, and urinary incontinence in patients with dementia in their homes over a 5- to 7-day period. The aims are to (1) examine the feasibility and acceptability of the use of body sensors in community-dwelling persons with dementia; (2) describe patterns of nocturnal agitation, sleep continuity and duration, and nighttime urinary incontinence; and (3) examine the relationships among nocturnal agitation, sleep continuity and duration, and nighttime urinary incontinence. Data collection is in early stages and is still in progress. Challenges and advantages from preliminary data collection are reported., (© The Author(s) 2014.)

This paper challenges the assumptions underlying many reviews and offers alternative criteria for examining evidence for nonpharmacological interventions. We evaluated 27 reviews examining interventions for persons with dementia as they relate to the issues of selection based on randomized controlled trial (RCT) design. Reviews were described by type of intervention, level of cognitive function, and criteria for inclusion. Of the 27 reviews, 46% required RCTs for inclusion and most had stringent inclusion criteria. This resulted in poor utilization of the literature and low ecological validity. Eliminating most of the available data poses a critical problem to clinical and research development. Studies meeting strict methodological criteria may not generalize to the greater population or may exclude sub-populations and interventions. Limitations of double-blind RCTs and potential design solutions are set forth based on appropriate populations, problems, interventions, and settings characteristics.

Background: Nonpharmacologic strategies to manage dementia-related behavioral symptoms depend upon caregiver implementation. Caregivers may vary in readiness to use strategies. We examined characteristics associated with readiness, extent readiness changed during intervention, and predictors of change in readiness., Methods: Data came from a randomized trial involving 119 caregivers in a nonpharmacologic intervention for managing behavioral symptoms. Baseline measures included caregiver, patient, and treatment-related factors. At initial (2 weeks from baseline) and final (16 weeks) intervention sessions, interventionists rated caregiver readiness as pre-action (precontemplation = 1; contemplation = 2; preparation = 3) or action (= 4). Ordinal logistic regression identified baseline characteristics associated with initial readiness. Mc Nemar-Bowker test of symmetry described change in readiness; binary logistic regression identified baseline predictors of change in readiness (initial to final sessions). One-way multivariate analysis of variance identified treatment factors (dose/intensity, number of strategies used, perceived benefits, and therapeutic engagement) associated with change in readiness., Results: At initial intervention session, 67.2% (N = 80) of caregivers were in pre-action and 32.8% (N = 39) in action. Initial high readiness was associated with better caregiver mood, less financial difficulty, lower patient cognition, and more behavioral symptoms. By final session, 72% (N = 79) were in action and 28% (N = 31) in pre-action; caregivers with less financial difficulty improved in readiness (B = -0.70, p = 0.017); those in action were more therapeutically engaged (F[2,107] = 3.61, p = 0.030) and perceived greater intervention benefits (F[2, 88] = 6.06, p = 0.003)., Conclusion: Whereas patient and caregiver-related factors were associated with initial readiness, financial stability, therapeutic engagement, and perceived benefits enhanced probability of change. Understanding caregiver readiness and factors associated with its change may be important considerations in nonpharmacologic interventions., (Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.)

There are several predictable transitions in the course of dementia, and care is often provided by family members in the earlier stages. Later stages often include the move to one or more care settings. Important transitions for those with dementia and their families and/or caregivers include the initial diagnosis of dementia; advanced planning for financial concerns and healthcare considerations; driving cessation; managing behavioral symptoms; changes in settings; and preparing for end-of-life. Evidence has emerged to inform the important roles nurses may have in each of the transitions. In this article, we explore the concept of transitional care and how it relates to nursing care of older adults with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. We begin by briefly describing a middle-range theory of transitions. Next, we describe the dementia trajectory and provide evidence for expanding nursing roles in transitions. Also included are recommendations for research in the area of roles and transitional care.

Aims: This article is a report on a study of the multidimensional predictors of caregiver burden in caregivers of individuals with dementia using nationally representative data., Background: Caregiver burden affects the health of both caregivers and their care-recipients. Although previous studies identified various predictors of caregiver burden, these predictors have not been confirmed in nationally representative population., Methods: Data for this secondary analysis was provided by the National Alliance for Caregiving, American Association of Retired Persons. The data were collected through a telephone survey of randomly selected adults in seven states in 2003 (weight adjusted n = 302). Descriptive statistics, inter-correlation analysis and a hierarchical multiple regression analysis were performed., Results/findings: Disease-related factors were the most significant predictors, explaining 16% of caregiver burden; these were followed by caregiver socio-demographical factors and caregiving-related factors (F = 21·28, P < 0·01). Significant individual predictors were impairment of activities of daily living or instrumental activities of daily living, the number of hours of caregiving, use of coping strategies, co-residence, spousal status and caregiver gender (P < 0·05)., Conclusion: Impaired function in care-recipients predicts caregiver burden, and also interacts with demographical- and caregiving-related factors. Thus, it will be beneficial to both care-recipients and caregivers to target nursing interventions and community services to improve the functional abilities of individuals with dementia., (© 2011 The Authors. Journal of Advanced Nursing © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.)

Study Objectives: To examine nighttime sleep patterns of persons with dementia showing nocturnal agitation behaviors and to determine whether restless legs syndrome (RLS), periodic limb movements in sleep (PLMS), and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are associated with nocturnal agitation behaviors., Design: Cross-sectional., Setting: General community., Participants: 59 participants with geriatrician-diagnosed dementia. Participants ages ranged from 66 to 88 years (mean age 79.1; SD 6.0). Mean Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) score was 20.1 (SD 6.6). MMSE was used to measure baseline cognitive function and not for the diagnosis of dementia., Interventions: None., Measurements and Results: Sleep was measured by 2 nights of in-home, attended, portable polysomnography (PSG). Nocturnal agitation was measured over 3 additional nights using the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory modified for direct observations. Two experts independently and via consensus identified probable RLS. Total sleep time in participants was 5.6 h (SD 1.8 h). Mean periodic limb movements in sleep index (PLMI) was 15.29, and a high percentage (49%) had moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. Probable RLS was present in 24% of participants. Those with more severe cognitive impairment had longer sleep latency. Severe cognitive impairment, low apnea hypopnea index (AHI), and probable RLS were associated with nocturnal agitation behaviors (R(2) = 0.35, F(3,55) = 9.40, P < 0.001)., Conclusions: It appears that probable RLS is associated with nocturnal agitation behaviors in persons with dementia, while OSA and PLMS are not. Further investigation is warranted to determine if treatment of RLS impacts nocturnal agitation behaviors in persons with dementia.

Approximately one quarter of adults with dementia experience sleep disturbances. The purpose of this article is to (a) describe and define sleep disturbances in individuals with dementia, (b) describe techniques to assess for sleep disturbances in individuals with dementia, and (c) provide nursing interventions to improve sleep in this patient population. Typical presentations of sleep disturbances in individuals with dementia are described, along with medications that may interfere with sleep. Suggestions for nursing measures that can be implemented to enhance sleep are also presented. Nurses have numerous nonpharmacological options to assist with the regulation of sleep-wake rhythms in individuals with dementia., (Copyright 2010, SLACK Incorporated.)

In 2007, a comprehensive review of the extant research on nonpharmacological interventions for persons with early-stage dementia was conducted. More than 150 research reports, centered on six major domains, were included: early-stage support groups, cognitive training and enhancement programs, exercise programs, exemplar programs, health promotion programs, and "other" programs not fitting into previous categories. Theories of neural regeneration and plasticity were most often used to support the tested interventions. Recommendations for practice, research, and health policy are outlined, including evidence-based, nonpharmacological treatment protocols for persons with mild cognitive impairment and early-stage dementia. A tested, community-based, multimodal treatment program is also described. Overall, findings identify well-supported nonpharmacological treatments for persons with early-stage dementia and implications for a national health care agenda to optimize outcomes for this growing population of older adults.

Family caregivers of persons with dementia and their care recipients frequently experience sleep and mood disturbances throughout their caregiving and disease trajectories. Because conventional pharmacologic treatments of sleep and mood disturbances pose numerous risks and adverse effects to elderly persons, the investigation of other interventions is warranted. As older adults use complementary and alternative medicine interventions for the relief of sleep and mood disturbances, cranial electrical stimulation, an energy-based complementary and alternative medicine, may be a viable intervention. The proposed mechanism of action and studies that support cranial electrical stimulation as a modality to reduce distressing symptoms are reviewed. Directions for research are proposed.

Providing care for someone with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias (ADRD) is associated with significant physical and mental strain affecting quality of life among caregivers. However, little attention has been given to sexual minority (SM ; lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer) people caring for those with ADRD. In this cross-sectional study, we used psychosocial measures to describe the characteristics and family quality of life of SM and heterosexual caregivers for people with ADRD. SM caregivers were significantly younger and more frequently reported full or part-time employment compared with their heterosexual counterparts. Lesbian and bisexual caregivers reported more difficulty in paying for everyday basics. After controlling for demographic covariates, SM caregivers had significantly higher family quality of life scores compared with heterosexual caregivers. This study is among the first to compare family quality of life between SM and heterosexual caregivers. Findings can guide development of targeted interventions for SM caregivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Given what little is known about the experiences of sexual and gender minority (SGM) caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD), the aim of the current study was to describe psychosocial measures among these caregivers. Methods: We used an online survey and social media recruitment strategies. Results: Of 286 caregivers, the majority were gay men. Most respondents were white, with a third identifying as Latino American. The plurality of caregivers identified as a spouse/partner and were providing care for someone who identified as a sexual minority; one-fifth cared for someone transgender. Sexual orientation, perceived stress, caregiver stigma, and microaggressions were psychosocial factors associated with family quality of life and depressive symptoms in the caregivers. Discussion: This study is the first to provide a focused description of the characteristics and psychosocial needs of SGM caregivers of someone with ADRD, supporting development of targeted interventions for this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Caring for a family member with dementia puts caregivers at risk for depressive symptoms. Yet, interventions with promising effects on caregiver depressive symptoms are not well documented. Aims: This review aimed to examine the quality and effectiveness of interventions to reduce depressive symptoms reported by caregivers of people with dementia. Design: A systematic review and meta-analysis of nonpharmacological intervention trials was conducted. Methods: The electronic databases searched included MEDLINE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO to find randomized controlled trials published between 2007 and 2017. A total of 31 randomized controlled trials were included in the meta-analysis. Results: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (838 participants) showed a large, significant effect (standardized mean difference = −0.905; 95% CI = (−1.622, −0.187); p = 0.013) and mindfulness interventions (186 participants) showed moderate, significant effects (standardized mean difference = −0.578; 95% CI = (−0.881, −0.275); p < 0.001) on decreasing caregiver depressive symptoms, while psychoeducational interventions demonstrated small but significant effects (standardized mean difference = −0.244; 95% CI = (−0.395, −0.092); p = 0.002). Emotional support, cognitive rehabilitation, and multicomponent interventions showed less than small or nonsignificant effects related to depressive symptoms among caregivers. Conclusion: Cognitive-behavioral therapy interventions, which focus on diminishing negative thoughts and increasing positive activities, can effectively decrease depressive symptoms for caregivers of individuals with dementia. Future research is recommended to assess the long-term effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study on care conditions for persons with early-onset dementia. It highlights the social, financial, and functional impact of early-onset dementia on individuals and their families which is presented in several case studies. The study aims to exemplify health care provider actions or interventions related to the identified themes and to communicate a basis for further research development.

The article presents a study which examines the use of cranial electrical stimulation to reduce sleep and mood disturbances in persons with dementia. According to the authors, cranial electrical stimulation can have a positive effect on sleep disturbances and depressive symptoms by increasing blood and cerebrospinal fluid levels of serotonin, neropinephrine, dopamine and ß-endorphin.

Family caregivers of persons with dementia and their care recipients frequently experience sleep and mood disturbances throughout their caregiving and disease trajectories. Because conventional pharmacologic treatments of sleep and mood disturbances pose numerous risks and adverse effects to elderly persons, the investigation of other interventions is warranted. As older adults use complementary and alternative medicine interventions for the relief of sleep and mood disturbances, cranial electrical stimulation, an energy-based complementary and alternative medicine, may be a viable intervention. The proposed mechanism of action and studies that support cranial electrical stimulation as a modality to reduce distressing symptoms are reviewed. Directions for research are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses research which was conducted to explore the concept of family quality of life in dementia. Researchers used Delphi methods with an expert consensus panel and interviews with family members of people with Alzheimer's disease to test an instrument to objectively measure the concept. They found that additional testing was needed on the instrument to determine its effectiveness.