Investigating a Group Intervention in Early-Onset Dementia Carers 5.1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Responding to Stress and Distress in Early Onset Dementia: an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of a Biopsychosocial Group Intervention for Carers.
IRAS ID
204630
Contact name
Craig Wilson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
NHS Lanarkshire Research & Development
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 8 months, 31 days
Research summary
Early-Onset Dementia Family Carers: What are their experiences of a group intervention for “Stress and Distress in Dementia”, and what does this mean for their caring role?
Family carers are fundamental in supporting people with a diagnosis of dementia live at home. Although rewarding, caring for family members with dementia can contribute to mental health problems and stress.
Studies have shown that carers groups help family members cope with their caring role. Several studies have also attempted to identify what does and does not work within these groups. Both types of studies usually focus on people with a diagnosis of dementia over the age of 65, whereas studies with people under the age of 65 (‘Early-Onset Dementia’) are limited. As both groups differ in many ways, research into interventions for younger carers is needed.
In NHS Lanarkshire, a “Stress and Distress in Dementia” group has been created, drawing on findings from older adult research, to help carers recognise and manage distress. It is currently being used with Early-Onset Dementia care-givers within the Young-Onset Dementia team.Aims: This study aims to find out how carers of people with Early-Onset Dementia experience this group and caring after the group. The study also asks how they view dementia and distress after attending the group.
Methods: Carers that have attended the group within the last year will be asked to participate in an hour-long, recorded interview. It will allow carers to express their views and experiences of caring and what has improved or become worse since the group. Up to ten carers will be interviewed between June 2016 and May 2017.
Potential Benefits: The study will add to the research on what works for carers groups for people with Early-Onset Dementia, and help make changes to this type of group, in an often under-represented carer group within the research.
REC name
HSC REC A
REC reference
16/NI/0182
Date of REC Opinion
22 Aug 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion