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Early-stage memory loss support groups: outcomes from a randomized controlled clinical trial
- Source :
- The Journals of Gerontology, Series B. Nov, 2010, Vol. 65 Issue 6, p691, 7 p.
- Publication Year :
- 2010
-
Abstract
- Objectives. This article describes results of a randomized controlled trial comparing a time-limited early-stage memory loss (ESML) support group program conducted by a local Alzheimer's Association chapter to a wait-list (WL) control condition. Methods. One hundred and forty-two dyads were randomized in blocks to ESML (n = 96) or WL (n = 46). Mean age of participants was 74.9 years, and mean Mini-Mental State Examination was 23.4. The primary outcome was participant's quality of life; secondary outcomes included mood, family communication, and perceived stress. Results. On the intent-to-treat (ITT) pre-post analysis, significant differences were seen in participant quality of life (p < .001), depression (p < .01), and family communication (p < .05). Within the care partner groups, there was no significant difference between ESML and WL in the ITT analysis. A post hoc exploratory examination of changes that were associated with improved quality of life in ESML participants revealed significant reductions of depressive symptoms and behavior problems (p < .05), improved family communication (p < .05), self-efficacy (p < .01), Medical Outcomes Study short form (SF-36) role--emotional (p < .05), SF-36 social functioning (p < .05), and SF-36 mental health components (p < .01) in improvers. Discussion, These results support the efficacy of ESML support groups for individuals with dementia. Key Words: Alzheimer's disease--Caregivers--Dementia--Depression--Quality of life. doi: 10.1093/geronb/gbq054.
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 10795014
- Volume :
- 65
- Issue :
- 6
- Database :
- Gale General OneFile
- Journal :
- The Journals of Gerontology, Series B
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- edsgcl.255242535