The effects of a support group on dementia caregivers’ burden and depression
Year of Publication 2011
Abstract
Objective: The aim of the study is to investigate the effects of a support group on depression levels and burden among dementia caregivers in Taiwan. Method: An experimental, pre-intervention post-intervention control group design was used in this study. The experimental group received intervention consisting of a 12-week support group for dementia caregivers. A total of 85 subjects were evaluated before intervention, after intervention, and at 1-month follow-up. Results: (a) The depression level of participants in the experimental group was significantly decreased after the intervention and at 1-month follow-up. (b) There was no significant difference in caregiver’s burden after the support group intervention and 1-month follow-up. Discussion: The improvement in dementia caregivers’ depression levels shows that the support group was effective for reducing caregivers’ depression although not effective for relieving their burden of care. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved). (journal abstract)