RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT06200909

Self-Care Training for Family Caregivers of Persons With Neurodegeneration

Caring for the Family Caregiver: Testing the Effect of Two Wellness Programs That Support the Well-being of Family Caregivers of Persons With Neurodegenerative Disorders

Sponsor

Toronto Metropolitan University

Enrollment

232 participants

Start Date

Jun 1, 2024

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Caregiver Burden Caregiver Stress

Summary

The purpose of this study is to assess whether an 8-week mindfulness program enhances psychological well-being (e.g., stress, depressive symptoms), biological indicators of stress (e.g., inflammation), and cognitive function (e.g., attentional ability) in primary family caregivers of persons with dementia or a related neurodegenerative disease. A total of 232 primary family caregivers aged 50+ years of age will be recruited for this study and randomized to one of three groups: mindfulness meditation (MM), psychoeducation (PSY) or caregiver respite (CR). All participants will complete three testing sessions: baseline (pre-intervention \[T1\]), post 8-week follow-up (post-intervention, \[T2\]), and 12-month follow-up (T3).

Eligibility

Min Age: 50 YearsMax Age: 100 Years

Inclusion Criteria3

+ years of age
Currently a primary family caregiver
Fluent in English

Exclusion Criteria5

Existing mindfulness practice
Diagnosed/Presenting with Post-traumatic Stress Disorder; Substance Disorder; Psychosis
Unable to attend 8 sessions
No access to a computer or high-speed internet
Not willing to be randomized

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Interventions

OTHERMindfulness Meditation

8-week mindfulness meditation program, based on Kabat-Zinn's MBSR program and modified for caregivers. The intervention will be led by MBSR-trained facilitators.

OTHERPsychoeducation

A lecture-style program based on the "10 Keys"TM to Healthy Aging Course, an evidence-based program for older adults. The program will be delivered by a facilitator experienced in delivering similar content.

OTHERWait list control

Participants will receive two hours of respite from their caregiving responsibilities per week, for eight weeks. They will be given the opportunity to participate in either the MM or the PSY condition following completion of testing.