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Loi Franzcp PhD Mbbs SM, Cadwallader CJ, Stretton-Smith PA, Flynn L, Wand AP, Bryant C, Baker FA. A mixed methods evaluation of the music and psychology and social connections (MAPS) pilot - A dyadic intervention for couples affected by young-onset dementia. DEMENTIA 2024:14713012241263151. [PMID: 38904256 DOI: 10.1177/14713012241263151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION People living with young-onset dementia and their care-partners are at risk of a range of adverse mental health outcomes and social isolation. There are few interventions aimed at supporting couples affected by young-onset dementia, which poses unique psychosocial challenges for younger people. METHODOLOGY This pre-post interventional mixed methods pilot study aimed to assess the feasibility and acceptability of an online group program for people with young-onset dementia and their care-partners living at home in Australia. The Music And Psychology and Social connections (MAPS) program aimed to address: (1) the challenges and changes associated with young-onset dementia; and (2) coping and wellbeing. The program involved six weekly two-hour sessions co-facilitated by a psychologist and music therapist, and a private Facebook group. The primary outcomes of feasibility and acceptability were assessed through a post-program focus group, separate individual feedback sessions with each couple, and a program evaluation questionnaire. Thematic analysis was conducted on the focus group transcripts and field notes from couple feedback sessions. We also examined the preliminary utility of MAPS in improving mental health and social connectedness, using quantitative pre-post-measures. RESULTS Five couples completed the MAPS program. The most common dementia type was Alzheimer's Disease. Participant attendance was 87% across all sessions. Qualitative findings supported acceptability of the program with four emergent themes: being connected to others with shared experiences; reframing thoughts and feelings about dementia; music as a therapeutic tool; and benefits of MAPS. CONCLUSION The high retention rate, qualitative findings and positive program evaluation suggest MAPS may be a promising, feasible and acceptable program for couples affected by young-onset dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha M Loi Franzcp PhD Mbbs
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Australia
- Neuropsychiatry Centre, John Cade level 2, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Australia
| | - Claire J Cadwallader
- Neuropsychiatry Centre, John Cade level 2, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Australia
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Australia
| | | | - Libby Flynn
- Faculty of Fine Arts and Music, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Anne Pf Wand
- Specialty of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Australia
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Heath, University of New South Wales, Australia
- Older Peoples Mental Health, Sydney Local Health District, Australia
| | - Christina Bryant
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Felicity A Baker
- Faculty of Fine Arts and Music, The University of Melbourne, Australia
- Norwegian Academy of Music, Oslo
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Thomson MD, Wilson-Genderson M, Siminoff LA. Cancer patient and caregiver communication about economic concerns and the effect on patient and caregiver partners' perceptions of family functioning. J Cancer Surviv 2024; 18:941-949. [PMID: 36808388 PMCID: PMC10445289 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-023-01341-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Financial strain and stressful life events can constrain open communication within families. A cancer diagnosis can bring heightened emotional stress and financial strain for most cancer patients and their families. We evaluated how level of comfort and willingness to discuss important but sensitive economic topics affected longitudinal assessments of family relationships, exploring both within-person and between partner effects over 2 years after a cancer diagnosis. METHODS A case series of hematological cancer patient-caregiver dyads (n = 171) were recruited from oncology clinics in Virginia and Pennsylvania and followed for 2 years. Multi-level models were developed to examine the associations between comfort discussing economic aspects of cancer care and family functioning. RESULTS Broadly, caregivers and patients who were comfortable discussing economic topics reported higher family cohesion and lower family conflict. Dyads' assessments of family functioning were influenced both by their own and their partners level of communication comfort. Overtime, caregiver but not patients perceived a significant decrease in family cohesion. CONCLUSIONS Efforts to address financial toxicity in cancer care should include examination of how patients and families communicate as unaddressed difficulties can have detrimental effects on family functioning in the long term. Future studies should also examine whether the prominence of specific economic topics, such as employment status, varies depending on where the patient is in their cancer journey. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS In this sample, cancer patients did not perceive the decline in family cohesion that was reported by their family caregiver. This is an important finding for future work that aims to identify the timing and nature to best intervene with caregiver supports to mitigate caregiver burden that may negatively impact long-term patient care and QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria D Thomson
- Department of Health Behavior and Policy, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University/Massey Cancer Center, Richmond, VA, USA.
| | - Maureen Wilson-Genderson
- College of Public Health, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Temple University, Suite 370, 1101 W. Montgomery Ave. Philadelphia, Bell Building, PA, 19122, USA
| | - Laura A Siminoff
- College of Public Health, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Temple University, Suite 370, 1101 W. Montgomery Ave. Philadelphia, Bell Building, PA, 19122, USA
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Wang S, Huang Y, Fan AYN, Ho MH, Davidson PM. Factors influencing the psychosocial well-being of people with dementia and their informal caregivers: A systematic review of dyadic studies. Int J Ment Health Nurs 2024; 33:560-581. [PMID: 38131462 DOI: 10.1111/inm.13279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Individuals with dementia and their informal caregivers face significant challenges to their psychosocial well-being, necessitating immediate attention. In spite of the prevalence of this problem, there is limited data regarding the factors that influence the dyadic psychosocial well-being and potential actor-partner influencing mechanisms. Therefore, this review was conducted to synthesise the factors associated with the psychosocial well-being of people with dementia and their informal caregivers. MEDLINE via EBSCOhost, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Embase and Scopus were systematically searched to identify relevant studies. Quantitative, qualitative or mixed-method studies examining the factors influencing dyadic psychosocial well-being outcomes were included. The quality of included studies was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal checklists. A narrative synthesis approach was employed for data analysis. A total of 3217 records were yield, out of which 26 studies were included in the analysis. Quality of life emerged as the most extensively investigated dyadic psychosocial well-being outcome, followed by depression. The interrelation between the quality of life for people with dementia and caregivers was observed, where individual members' quality of life was influenced by their own, partner and dyadic factors. However, there is a dearth of research exploring the mechanisms through which one member's factors exert influence on both their own and partner's quality of life within the dyad. This gap also exists for other psychosocial well-being outcomes, such as depression and anxiety. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms through which dyadic members influence their own and their partner's psychosocial well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Wang
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yaqi Huang
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Avis Yat Ngar Fan
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Mu-Hsing Ho
- School of Nursing, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Plys E, Grunberg VA, Vranceanu AM. Advancing Methodological Rigor for Psychosocial Aspects of Neuropalliative Care Interventions. J Palliat Care 2024; 39:92-96. [PMID: 38343071 PMCID: PMC10986462 DOI: 10.1177/08258597241232490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
Background: Neurological disorders (NDs) have unique biopsychosocial-spiritual features that impact patients and their families. As a result, the subspeciality of neuropalliative care (NPC) emerged within the past decade and has grown exponentially in research and practice. Given the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral changes associated with NDs, psychosocial components (eg, coping skills) of NPC interventions are essential for improving the quality of life for patients and families. However, psychosocial components of NPC interventions warrant more rigorous testing to improve their evidence base and their likelihood of implementation and dissemination. Aim: In this commentary, we provide methodological recommendations with the goal of improving scientific knowledge and rigor for psychosocial components of multicomponent NPC interventions in clinical trials. Results: We emphasize the need for transparent reporting of psychosocial intervention components; using established models of intervention development to guide the development and testing of multicomponent NPC interventions; identifying mechanisms of action for psychosocial outcomes; and choosing psychometrically sound measures for mechanisms and outcomes. Conclusions: Given the importance of psychosocial care to the holistic NPC model, rigorous testing of psychosocial components of NPC interventions is a high priority for clinical investigators to advance the evidence base and practice of NPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan Plys
- Center for Health Outcomes and Interdisciplinary Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Victoria A. Grunberg
- Center for Health Outcomes and Interdisciplinary Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Newborn Medicine, MassGeneral for Children, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ana-Maria Vranceanu
- Center for Health Outcomes and Interdisciplinary Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Cui X, Wang J, Wu B, Zhao Q, Tang X, Wang J. Interventions for Persons with Young-Onset Dementia and Their Families: A Scoping Review. J Alzheimers Dis 2024; 97:1519-1531. [PMID: 38277297 DOI: 10.3233/jad-231006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Background Dementia occurring before age 65 is known as young-onset dementia (YOD), with Alzheimer's disease being the most common type. YOD poses unique challenges for persons and families, impacting their working-age years and family responsibilities. Person-centered interventions and services are essential to improve their quality of life and social engagement. Objective This study aims to synthesize non-pharmacological interventions for persons with YOD and their families to inform future targeted interventions. Methods We conducted a systematic literature search across four databases: PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and CINAHL. The included articles were carefully screened, categorized, and synthesized by following Arksey and O'Malley's five stages framework. Results We included 20 studies reported in 24 papers, with 11 studies (14 papers) on persons with YOD and nine studies (10 papers) on families. Quantitative intervention results vary, but qualitative interviews show positive feedback. Stakeholders provided positive evaluations, stating these interventions provided a sense of normalcy, facilitated communication among families, enhanced the independence of persons with YOD, and improved the families' caregiving self-efficacy, thereby reducing care burden and psychological distress. The heterogeneity among the studies posed integration challenges. Conclusions Interventions for YOD can improve the quality of life for both persons with YOD and their families. More extensive intervention studies are urgently needed, especially in developing countries, with a focus on family-centered and life course perspectives. In future intervention research design, a more extensive incorporation of stakeholder involvement is essential for successful implementation. Moreover, the integration of new technologies shows promise as a potential avenue for intervention advancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Cui
- Fudan University School of Nursing, Shanghai, China
| | - Junqiao Wang
- Fudan University School of Nursing, Shanghai, China
| | - Bei Wu
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, NY, USA
| | - Qianhua Zhao
- Institute of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueting Tang
- Fudan University School of Nursing, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Wang
- University of New Hampshire, NH, USA
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Landolt SA, Weitkamp K, Roth M, Sisson NM, Bodenmann G. Dyadic coping and mental health in couples: A systematic review. Clin Psychol Rev 2023; 106:102344. [PMID: 37866090 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2023.102344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Globally, one out of three people suffer from a mental health issue during their lifetime. In romantic relationships, impaired mental health does not only affect the individual but also their partner and therefore needs to be coped with dyadically. In this systematic review, we summarize research examining dyadic coping (DC) in the context of mental health and individual and relational outcomes. We searched for peer-reviewed articles published between January 1990 and April 2023 on PsycInfo, Medline, and PSYNDEX on DC and mental health within romantic relationships. A total of 60 qualitative, quantitative, and intervention studies met the inclusion criteria, reporting on 16,394 individuals and 4,945 dyads. To synthesize the studies, we used a narrative synthesis approach. Overall, stress expression and positive DC yielded beneficial individual and relational outcomes, whereas, for negative DC, the opposite was true. Results differed between mental health clusters and context played an important role (e.g., symptom severity, life phase). Due to the great diversity of studies and variables, further research should focus on understudied mental health clusters (e.g., anxiety disorders). Clinicians are advised to view mental health issues as a dyadic rather than an individual phenomenon ("we-disease") and develop tailored couple-centered interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Michelle Roth
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Natalie M Sisson
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Canada
| | - Guy Bodenmann
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Switzerland
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Morgan B, Stites SD, Greenfield F, Fisher L, Kalafsky M, Hodgson N, Massimo L. Time out weekly smile: A pilot test of a virtual respite program. Geriatr Nurs 2023; 54:178-183. [PMID: 37797545 PMCID: PMC10955550 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2023.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Respite care provides alternative care for persons living with dementia (PLWD) and is intended to alleviate the burden of caregiving. However, the evaluation of respite programs is limited. Time Out Weekly Smile (TOWS) is a virtual intergenerational respite care program designed to meet the needs of PLWD and their care partners and provide allied health students opportunities to serve as respite volunteers. This multi-method pilot study aimed to evaluate the experience of TOWS participation for all (i.e., care partners, PLWD, students) and identify outcomes of interest for future efficacy studies. Semi-structured interviews with all participants after experiencing TOWS were analyzed using conventional content analysis methods and student surveys of dementia attitudes were summarized. Results demonstrated lasting mutual benefits for all participants including social connection and creating meaning. Our findings suggest that including all respite care participants in future efficacy studies will elucidate the wide impact of respite care programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianna Morgan
- New York University Grossman School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatric Medicine and Palliative Care, New York City, NY, USA; University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, USA; New Courtland Center for Transitions and Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Shana D Stites
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Felicia Greenfield
- Penn Memory Center, Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lauren Fisher
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, USA; New Courtland Center for Transitions and Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Megan Kalafsky
- Penn Memory Center, Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nancy Hodgson
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, USA; New Courtland Center for Transitions and Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lauren Massimo
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, USA; New Courtland Center for Transitions and Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Penn Frontotemporal Degeneration Center, Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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8
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Loi SM, Cations M, Velakoulis D. Young-onset dementia diagnosis, management and care: a narrative review. Med J Aust 2023; 218:182-189. [PMID: 36807325 PMCID: PMC10952480 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.51849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
Young-onset dementia comprises a heterogeneous range of dementias, with onset at less than 65 years of age. These include primary dementias such as Alzheimer disease, frontotemporal and vascular dementias; genetic/familial dementias; metabolic disorders; and secondary dementias such as those that result from alcohol use disorder, traumatic brain injury, and infections. The presentation of young-onset dementia is varied and may include cognitive, psychiatric and neurological symptoms. Diagnostic delay is common, with a frequent diagnostic conundrum being, "Is this young-onset dementia or is this psychiatric?". For assessment and accurate diagnosis, a thorough screen is recommended, such as collateral history and investigations such as neuroimaging, lumbar puncture, neuropsychology, and genetic testing. The management of young-onset dementia needs to be age-appropriate and multidisciplinary, with timely access to services and consideration of the family (including children).
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha M Loi
- University of MelbourneMelbourneVIC
- Royal Melbourne HospitalMelbourneVIC
| | | | - Dennis Velakoulis
- University of MelbourneMelbourneVIC
- Royal Melbourne HospitalMelbourneVIC
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Young-onset dementia (YOD) refers to a dementia for which symptom onset occurs below the age of 65. This review summarizes the recent literature in this area, focusing on updates in epidemiology, diagnosis and service provision. RECENT FINDINGS In the last year, internationally, the prevalence of YOD was reported as 119 per 100 000, but this may vary according to population types. Although the commonest causes of YOD are Alzheimer's disease (AD) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD), there is increasing recognition that YOD is diagnostically and phenotypically broader than AD and FTD. YOD may be due to many other diseases (e.g. Huntington's disease, vascular dementia) whereas accumulation of the same protein (e.g. amyloid protein) may lead to different phenotypes of Alzheimer's disease (such as posterior cortical atrophy and behavioural-variant/frontal-variant AD). This heterogeneity of phenotypic presentation is also seen in YOD due to known genetic mutations. Biomarkers such as plasma and cerebrospinal fluid proteins, neuroimaging and genetics have shown promise in the early identification of YOD as well as providing further understanding behind the overlap between psychiatric and neurodegenerative conditions occurring in younger people. The management of YOD needs to consider age-specific issues for younger people with dementia and their family networks together with better integration with other health services such as aged, disability and improved access to services and financial assistance. SUMMARY These findings emphasize the need for early identification and appropriate age-specific and person-centred management for people with young-onset dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha M Loi
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Royal Melbourne Hospital
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Yolande Pijnenburg
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Neurology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC location VUmc
- Amsterdam Neuroscience, Neurodegeneration, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dennis Velakoulis
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Royal Melbourne Hospital
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Wennberg AM, Anderson LR, Cagnin A, Chen-Edinboro LP, Pini L. How both positive and burdensome caregiver experiences are associated with care recipient cognitive performance: Evidence from the National Health and Aging Trends Study and National Study of Caregiving. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1130099. [PMID: 36860389 PMCID: PMC9969137 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1130099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Being an informal caregiver to a person with chronic disease, including persons living with dementia (PLWD), is a big role to take on and many caregivers experience both substantial burden and emotional reward related to caregiving. Care recipient factors (e.g., behavioral symptoms) are associated with caregiver experience. However, the relationship between caregiver and care recipient is bidirectional, so it is likely that caregiver factors impact the care recipient, though few studies have investigated this. Methods In the 2017 round of the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS) and National Study of Caregiving (NSOC), we studied 1,210 care dyads--170 PLWD dyads and 1,040 without dementia dyads. Care recipients completed immediate and delayed word list memory tasks, the Clock Drawing Test, and a self-rated memory rating, while caregivers were interviewed about their caregiving experiences using a 34-item questionnaire. Using principal component analysis, we created a caregiver experience score with three components-Practical Care Burden, Positive Care Experiences, and Emotional Care Burden. We then investigated the cross-sectional association between caregiver experience components and care recipient cognitive test performance using linear regression models adjusted for age, sex, education, race, and depressive and anxiety symptoms. Results Among PLWD dyads, a higher caregiver Positive Care Experiences score was associated with better care recipient performance on the delayed word recall (B = 0.20, 95% CI 0.05, 0.36) and Clock Draw (B = 0.12, 95% CI 0.01, 0.24) tests while higher Emotional Care Burden score was associated with worse self-rated memory score (B = -0.19, 95% CI -0.39, -0.003). Among participants without dementia, higher Practical Care Burden score was associated with poorer care recipient performance on the immediate (B = -0.07, 95% CI -0.12, -0.01) and delayed (B = -0.10, 95% CI -0.16, -0.05) word recall tests. Discussion These findings support the concept that caregiving is bidirectional within the dyad and that positive variables can positively impact both members of the dyad. This suggests that caregiving interventions should target the caregiver and recipient both individually and as a unit, with the goal of holistically improving outcomes for both.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra M. Wennberg
- Unit of Epidemiology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden,*Correspondence: Alexandra M. Wennberg ✉
| | - Loretta R. Anderson
- Program in Gerontology, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Annachiara Cagnin
- Department of Neuroscience (DNS) and Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Lenis P. Chen-Edinboro
- School of Health and Applied Human Sciences, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC, United States
| | - Lorenzo Pini
- Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Loi SM, Flynn L, Cadwallader C, Stretton-Smith P, Bryant C, Baker FA. Music and Psychology & Social Connections Program: Protocol for a Novel Intervention for Dyads Affected by Younger-Onset Dementia. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12040503. [PMID: 35448034 PMCID: PMC9031190 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12040503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychosocial interventions targeting the specific needs of people affected by younger-onset dementia are lacking. Younger-onset dementia refers to dementia where symptom onset occurs at less than 65 years old. Because of its occurrence in middle age, the impact on spouses is particularly marked and dyadic-based interventions are recommended. Music And Psychology & Social Connections (MAPS) is a novel online intervention, informed by the theory of adaptive coping by Bannon et al. (2021) for dyads affected by younger-onset dementia. MAPS combines therapeutic songwriting, cognitive behaviour therapy, and a private social networking group that focuses on the dyads. This will be a randomised controlled trial with a waitlist control. The primary aims are to assess whether MAPS improves depressive, anxiety, and stress symptoms in caregivers, with secondary aims to assess whether MAPS improves depressive symptoms in people with younger-onset dementia. The trial also aims to assess dyadic social connectedness; caregiver coping skills; and neuropsychiatric symptoms in people with younger-onset dementia. We will recruit 60 dyads to participate in a group-based weekly online program for 8 weeks facilitated by a credentialed music therapist and psychologist. Sessions 1 and 8 will include both caregivers and people with younger-onset dementia and Sessions 2–7 will involve separate group sessions for caregivers and those with dementia. There will be focus groups for qualitative feedback. Due to its online administration, MAPS has the potential to reach many dyads affected by younger-onset dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha M. Loi
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Neuropsychiatry, John Cade Level 2, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3050, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +613-9342-8750
| | - Libby Flynn
- Department of Fine Arts and Music, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (L.F.); (C.C.); (P.S.-S.); (F.A.B.)
| | - Claire Cadwallader
- Department of Fine Arts and Music, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (L.F.); (C.C.); (P.S.-S.); (F.A.B.)
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Phoebe Stretton-Smith
- Department of Fine Arts and Music, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (L.F.); (C.C.); (P.S.-S.); (F.A.B.)
| | - Christina Bryant
- Department of Psychology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia;
| | - Felicity A. Baker
- Department of Fine Arts and Music, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (L.F.); (C.C.); (P.S.-S.); (F.A.B.)
- Music Education and Music Therapy Department, Norwegian Academy of Music, 0369 Oslo, Norway
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Popok PJ, Reichman M, LeFeber L, Grunberg VA, Bannon SM, Vranceanu AM. OUP accepted manuscript. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2022; 62:1311-1323. [PMID: 35442443 PMCID: PMC9579459 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnac050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Young-onset dementias (YODs) are a set of progressive illnesses that are stressful for both persons with the diagnosis and their care-partners. Although the stressors differ based on their roles and individual experiences, both individuals are at risk for heightened emotional distress (e.g., depression and anxiety). Understanding the unique stressors for each partner and adaptive coping strategies to manage these stressors is important for informing individual and couples-based psychosocial interventions. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We conducted open-ended individual interviews with persons with YOD (N = 12) and their care-partners (i.e., romantic partner; N = 17) over live video. We utilized a hybrid of deductive and inductive analysis techniques to extract individual-level themes and subthemes regarding stressors and adaptive coping strategies. RESULTS Persons with YOD identified stressors including burden of YOD symptoms, loss of familial roles, resentment toward partner, isolation, and fear of the future. Care-partners identified stressors including managing their partners' symptoms, increased responsibilities, caregiving role, loss of intimacy, social isolation, and grief. For adaptive coping strategies, persons with YOD endorsed use of acceptance, promotion of independence, social support, and engaging in pleasurable activities. Care-partners endorsed value of learning about the diagnosis, using resources, optimism, social support, and self-care. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Findings highlight the unique experiences of persons with YOD and their care-partners. Identified themes can be used to inform role-specific psychosocial interventions for both individuals and couples coping with YOD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula J Popok
- Integrated Brain Health Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mira Reichman
- Integrated Brain Health Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lisa LeFeber
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Victoria A Grunberg
- Integrated Brain Health Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sarah M Bannon
- Integrated Brain Health Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ana-Maria Vranceanu
- Address correspondence to: Ana-Maria Vranceanu, PhD, Integrated Brain Health Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, One Bowdoin Square, 1st Floor, Suite 100, Boston, MA 02114, USA. E-mail:
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