Caring for Informal Dementia Caregivers and their Loved Ones via the HOMeCARE Exercise and Mindfulness for Health Program (HOMeCARE): A Randomized, Single-blind, Controlled Trial

Journal Publication ResearchOnline@JCU
Lang, Tommy;Daniel, Kenneth;Inskip, Michael;Mavros, Yorgi;Fiatarone Singh, Maria
Abstract

Objective: To investigate the effects of a dyadic intervention of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) for dementia family caregivers and home-based balance and progressive resistance training(PRT) for their loved ones. Methods: The study was a two arm, randomized, controlled, singleblinded, parallel-group trial. Dyads were randomized to an intervention group: an 8-week MBSR course (daily) and an 8-week PRT and balance training (3 days/week) for their loved ones or a waiting list control group. Results: Nine dyads were randomized [caregivers: median age 75 (40 – 81) years, loved ones: 77 (73 – 88) years]. MBSR significantly improved mindfulness [relative effect size (95% confidence interval) 1.35 (–0.10,2.81); P = .009], no significant effects on caregiver burden [relative effect size (95% confidence interval) 0.22 (–1.09, 1.54); P = .622], and PRT and balance training improved functional mobility [mean difference(95% confidence interval) 1.53 (–3.09, 6.14)]. Discussion: The study appeared feasible to the home environment and future trials should test the feasibility of a more abbreviated MBSR intervention to optimize adoption and adherence.

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Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine

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9

ISBN/ISSN

2333-7214

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Pages Count

37

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Publisher

Sage Publications

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DOI

10.1177/23337214231203472