Does a family meetings intervention prevent depression and anxiety in family caregivers of dementia patients? A randomized trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Family caregivers of dementia patients are at increased risk of developing depression or anxiety. A multi-component program designed to mobilize support of family networks demonstrated effectiveness in decreasing depressive symptoms in caregivers. However, the impact of an intervention consisting solely of family meetings on depression and anxiety has not yet been evaluated. This study examines the preventive effects of family meetings for primary caregivers of community-dwelling dementia patients.

Methods

A randomized multicenter trial was conducted among 192 primary caregivers of community dwelling dementia patients. Caregivers did not meet the diagnostic criteria for depressive or anxiety disorder at baseline. Participants were randomized to the family meetings

SUBMITTER: Joling KJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3267736 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature