Support groups for caregivers of patients with Dementia: A comparative study

Abstract Since the dementias lead to the need for caregivers, a Group for Dementia Caregivers (GC) was set up where the present study compared the psychosocial characteristics, quality of life and caregiver overload in a Group For Dementia Caregivers (GC) with caregivers not involved in this scheme (non-GC). Methods: 19 primary caregivers counseled by this group (GC group) was studied and compared to a group of 13 caregivers not receiving such counseling (non-GC group). The instruments used were the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-bref), the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and Caregiver Load Scale (CLS). Results: The two groups did not differ in mean age or gender (PNon-GC). The STAI revealed a significant difference (pNon-GC), but not in the State subscale. There was no significant difference in CLS. Conclusion: The GC appeared to be of benefit to its participants, with probable positive repercussions on the patients, particularly regarding their quality of life.