Psychoeducation for caregivers of patients with Alzheimer’s Disease: efficacy and impact on illness progression

Background. The Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder which symptoms include memory loss, problems with language, disorientation (including easily getting lost), mood swings, loss of motivation, self-neglect, and behavioral issues. Caregivers of patients with AD often experience distress, reduced quality of life and symptoms of anxiety or depression. This study aims at demonstrating the effects of psychoeducation on caregiver’s well-being and on AD progression.

Methods. A multicenter study was conducted on 200 patients with mild Alzheimer’s disease and 200 caregivers. Patients were given MMSE, Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR), Barthel Index, Neuropsychiatric Inventory while their caregivers had Hamilton rating scales for anxiety and depression (HRSA and HRSD), Five Minute Speech Sample, Family Problems Questionnaire (QPF), Knowledge Interview (KI), Psychological General Well Being Index (PGWBI), SCID II Interview. They were randomized and the experimental group were given psychoeducational sessions once a week for a six month period.

Results. Caregivers in the experimental group showed significant improvement in anxiety and depressive symptoms (as well as self-control). Furthermore they improved in irritability towards patient behavior.

Conclusion. Psychoeducation proves to be efficient in improving caregivers’ mental well-being and their attitude toward patients affected by Alzheimer’s disease.