The Importance of Stress Management for Family Caregivers of Older Adults with Dementia
Caring for a family member with dementia can be a challenging and emotionally taxing experience. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 80% of those living with dementia receive informal care from family members or friends. This means that there are approximately 16 million family caregivers in the U.S. However, the responsibilities of caregiving can often lead to increased caregiver burden, stress, and negative impacts on the caregiver’s physical health.
Recognizing the need for support for family caregivers, researchers at George Mason University conducted a study to assess the effectiveness of a stress management intervention program specifically designed for caregivers of older adults with dementia. The results, published in the Journal of Applied Gerontology, showed a significant reduction in caregiver burden scores among participants who completed the 9-week online intervention program.
The Stress-Busting Program for Family Caregivers TM, led by principal investigator Catherine Tompkins, aimed to provide family caregivers with tools and strategies to better manage their own stress levels while caring for a loved one with dementia. The program included education on self-care techniques such as breathing exercises, meditation, and peer-to-peer support in a virtual group setting.
“Our study found that the intervention was effective across all levels of dementia severity, from mild to severe. This suggests that online peer support groups can be a valuable resource for family caregivers seeking to reduce burden and improve their overall well-being,” said Tompkins, who is also a professor of social work and associate dean of faculty and staff affairs in the College of Public Health.
Co-author Gilbert Gimm, an associate professor of health administration and policy, emphasized the importance of stress management for family caregivers, stating, “Reducing caregiver burden and managing stress are critical to the well-being of families. These findings underscore the potential benefits of online interventions in providing support for caregivers.”
The study, titled “Mason Caregivers Aiming for Resilience, Empowerment, and Support Study: Assessing Family Caregiver Burden Post-Intervention,” was published online in April 2024. The research was supported by a grant from the Retirement Research Foundation (RRF) and is part of the larger Mason CARES project, which aims to implement and evaluate interventions for family caregivers.
Overall, the findings of this study highlight the importance of prioritizing stress management and support for family caregivers of older adults with dementia. By providing caregivers with the necessary tools and resources to cope with the challenges of caregiving, we can ultimately improve the quality of life for both the caregiver and the care recipient.
