scholarly journals Partnering With African American Faith-Based Communities to Support Dementia Caregivers

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 90-90
Author(s):  
Monica Long ◽  
Shellie Williams ◽  
Katherine Thompson ◽  
Jason Molony ◽  
Jeff Graupner
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Alzheimer's Disease ◽  
Support Groups ◽  
Stress Reduction ◽  
Dementia Caregivers ◽  
Caregiver Support ◽  
South Side ◽  
Train The Trainer ◽  
Community Needs ◽  
Faith Based

Abstract African Americans (AA) are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s Disease as Caucasians. Historically, houses of faith have been a center of the AA community and a trusted source of information and support. Based on these facts, as well as community needs, the SHARE Network (a Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program on the South Side of Chicago) in partnership with faith-based community leaders, created an opportunity for community members to train to become resource experts on Alzheimer’s Disease & Related Dementias (ADRD) and create sustainable caregiver support groups (CSGs). The resulting initiative, Dementia Resource Champions, is a train-the-trainer style health education initiative piloted in 2018, and subsequently expanded and modified due to COVID. Participants receive instruction on stress reduction, ADRD, and community resources. They discuss how to structure CSGs to meet community needs. Results of this initiative include development of five brand-new CSGs with faith communities on Chicago’s South Side.

3. Learning Modules in a Support Group Context for Caregivers of Individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wafa Nurdin ◽  
Aicha Wane
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Alzheimer's Disease ◽  
Support Groups ◽  
Support Group ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Community Dwelling ◽  
Daily Activities ◽  
Caregiver Support ◽  
Learning Modules ◽  
The Impact

The majority of community dwelling individuals with dementia have informal caregivers. With the risk of developing care related stress, it is important for community agencies, like the Alzheimer Society of Kingston (ASK), to provide support, resources, and information. The goal of this intervention was that caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) would improve physical, social, and mental well-being. A search of the literature, as well as surveys of support group facilitators, forty caregivers, and consultation with ASK helped determine information relevant to the caregivers. The purpose of this project was to develop learning modules on: a) using a problem-based strategy to assist with daily activities of the person they are caring for; b) self-care strategies; c) positive coping strategies; d) assertive communication skills, and e) home environment safety to be delivered during caregiver support groups. The module on a problem-based strategy to assist with daily activities was pilot tested, utilizing five caregivers. It was found that the learning module was approximately 30 minutes over the stated timeframe and the case study component of the module was ineffective. Recommendations include implementing the module as two parts. Furthermore, additional research is needed on the impact of the modules on caregiver stress and burden.

scholarly journals Chinese American Caregivers of Older Adults With Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias: A Scoping Review

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 160-160
Author(s):  
Mengyao Hu ◽  
Laura Grunin ◽  
Bei Wu
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Alzheimer's Disease ◽  
Asian American ◽  
Scoping Review ◽  
Filial Piety ◽  
Chinese American ◽  
Dementia Caregivers ◽  
Caregiver Support ◽  
Care Experience

Abstract With the rapid growth of aging populations, the number of older adults with dementia is increasing worldwide. While there is a significant amount of research on dementia caregivers, we know very little about Chinese American (the largest subgroup of the Asian American population in America) caregivers. Therefore, the aims of this study are to 1) conduct a scoping review by identifying existing studies on Chinese American dementia caregivers, 2) present the current state of the science on Chinese American dementia caregiving, and 3) provide direction for future research. Twenty-one studies were included in the final review with 3 main themes synthesized (care experience, utilization of programs/services, and recruitment for caregivers). Care experience included illness perception towards Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementia (ADRD) such as stigma and normalization of the disease process. Filial piety was another important cultural belief underpinning care experience. An underutilization of supportive programs/services among this population was identified. Additionally, the few existing programs/services for Chinese American caregivers as well as the barriers encountered when seeking these programs/services were seen in the literature. The strategies and barriers of the included research articles for recruitment of Chinese American caregivers are also discussed in this study. These findings provide an overview of the current knowledge about Chinese American caregivers and serve as a stepping stone for future studies on similar populations in promoting caregiver’s health and developing culturally sensitive caregiver support services.

S2-01-02: Effectiveness of time-limited support groups for people with early-stage Alzheimer's disease

2011 ◽  
Vol 7 ◽  
pp. S279-S279 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rebecca Logsdon ◽  
Kenneth Pike ◽  
Susan McCurry ◽  
Patricia Hunter ◽  
Joanne Maher ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Alzheimer's Disease ◽  
Support Groups ◽  
Early Stage ◽  
Limited Support

scholarly journals GIVE A PIECE OF YOUR MIND: A CONTENT ANALYSIS OF A FACEBOOK SUPPORT GROUP FOR DEMENTIA CAREGIVERS

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S850-S850
Author(s):  
Jenny A Lagervall ◽  
Madeline R Lag ◽  
Sophie Brickman ◽  
Rebecca E Ingram ◽  
Leilani Feliciano
Keyword(s):  
Support Groups ◽  
Caregiver Burden ◽  
Support Group ◽  
Coping Strategy ◽  
Online Support ◽  
Online Support Groups ◽  
Dementia Caregivers ◽  
Caregiver Support ◽  
Emotional Tone ◽  
Grief Reactions

Abstract The online environment offers individuals a means of obtaining information, support, and social connection. Older adults are growing users of the internet1. Online support groups (e.g., Facebook groups) have been found to provide health-related information and encourage mental well-being2. They may be particularly advantageous for caregivers of individuals diagnosed with dementia, as it is difficult to leave loved ones with dementia alone. However, the mechanisms by which online support groups engage caregivers, and the content of support, have yet to be explored. In the current study, content from 100 posts from a private Facebook caregiver support group were evaluated for gender of post author, relationship to the person receiving care, distress, emotional tone, grief reaction, caregiver burden, and coping strategy. Results indicated that caregiver distress was associated with the presence of grief reactions, negative emotional tone, and higher caregiver burden. Utilizing venting as a coping strategy was associated with higher caregiver burden, similar to what is observed in a traditional in-person support group. Online communication for caregivers may provide an indication of caregivers’ psychological well-being, as specific coping strategies and grief reactions indicated higher levels of caregiver burden and distress. Research on interventions for dementia caregivers may benefit from a focus on online social support as a means of accessing caregivers and treatment delivery.

scholarly journals A Yoga and Compassion Meditation Program Reduces Stress in Familial Caregivers of Alzheimer's Disease Patients

2013 ◽  
Vol 2013 ◽  
pp. 1-8 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. A. D. Danucalov ◽  
E. H. Kozasa ◽  
K. T. Ribas ◽  
J. C. F. Galduróz ◽  
M. C. Garcia ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Alzheimer's Disease ◽  
Perceived Stress ◽  
Stress Reduction ◽  
Salivary Cortisol ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Time Control ◽  
Compassion Meditation ◽  
Anxiety Depression ◽  
Familial Caregivers

Familial caregivers of patients with Alzheimer's disease exhibit reduced quality of life and increased stress levels. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of an 8-week yoga and compassion meditation program on the perceived stress, anxiety, depression, and salivary cortisol levels in familial caregivers. A total of 46 volunteers were randomly assigned to participate in a stress-reduction program for a 2-month period (yoga and compassion meditation program—YCMP group) (n=25) or an untreated group for the same period of time (control group) (n=21). The levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and morning salivary cortisol of the participants were measured before and after intervention. The groups were initially homogeneous; however, after intervention, the groups diverged significantly. The YCMP group exhibited a reduction of the stress (P<0.05), anxiety (P<0.000001), and depression (P<0.00001) levels, as well as a reduction in the concentration of salivary cortisol (P<0.05). Our study suggests that an 8-week yoga and compassion meditation program may offer an effective intervention for reducing perceived stress, anxiety, depression, and salivary cortisol in familial caregivers.

scholarly journals Alzheimer’s Disease Risk Reduction: An Evidence-Based, Multi-Component Lifestyle Program, Pre- & Intra-Covid-19

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 644-645
Author(s):  
Gina Touch ◽  
Paul Bendheim
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Alzheimer's Disease ◽  
Physical Fitness ◽  
Stress Reduction ◽  
Cognitive Skills ◽  
Healthy Aging ◽  
Disease Risk ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Lifestyle Modifications

Abstract Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the 5th leading cause of death in the USA. With nearly 300 failed therapeutic trials to date, lifestyle modifications have been shown to reduce AD risk by as much as 50%. Preceding the FINGER Study by nearly a decade, the BrainSavers Brain+Body Total Fitness program was developed by an interdisciplinary team to reduce the risk of AD / all-cause dementia and promote healthy aging via education, exercise, and engagement. This evidence-based program utilizes the principles of neuroplasticity and cognitive reserve. Pre-Covid, BrainSavers was delivered live, led by certified instructors. Two years of curriculum were developed, comprised of six lifestyle components: cognitive exercise, physical exercise, healthful nutrition, socialization, stress reduction, and sleep hygiene. Results of a six month beta trial documented self-rated improvements in memory and general cognitive performance, quality of life, socialization, nutritional status, and physical fitness. Quantitative results showed statistically significant differences in physical fitness measures including cardio-respiratory endurance, lower body strength, balance, speed, and agility. Trends were seen in six of nine cognitive skills. During Covid the program was transformed into an online format as BrainSavers Synapse: Staying Connected, which has been enthusiastically received. Future research will compare longer-term outcomes of both formats. Based on results to date and extensive peer-reviewed literature on lifestyle as a modifier of dementia risk, we predict this program will contribute to better individual and societal outcomes, including substantial improvements in cognitive and overall health, and a significant reduction in healthcare costs.

scholarly journals “Making Sense of a Disease That Makes No Sense”: Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders Among Caregivers and Providers Within Alaska Native Communities

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jordan P Lewis ◽  
Spero M Manson ◽  
Valarie B Jernigan ◽  
Carolyn Noonan
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Alzheimer's Disease ◽  
Health Care ◽  
Support Groups ◽  
Health Care Providers ◽  
Alaska Native ◽  
Adult Population ◽  
Memory Loss ◽  
Cost Of Care ◽  
Care Providers

Abstract Background and Objectives With the rate of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) increasing among Alaska Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) people, the Alaska Native Health system is ill-prepared to meet the challenges associated with the growing population at risk of ADRD. The high cost of care, inadequate training of health care providers, and lack of supportive services for caregivers are especially concerning. Research Design and Methods Interviews were conducted with 22 AN caregivers for ANs with ADRD and 12 ANs and non-Native health care providers in communities across Alaska. Interviews lasted approximately 60 min and were transcribed verbatim. We employed directed content analysis to examine the major agreements and disagreements between the participants’ understandings of ADRD in each of the domains of Kleinman’s Explanatory Model of Illness. Results Caregivers and health care providers expressed concerns about the lack of understanding, resources, and awareness of ADRD among ANs in rural and urban communities. Both caregivers and providers recognized the need to obtain an early diagnosis, blend Western and traditional medicines, promote lifestyle and dietary changes, and foster training for caregivers. Health care providers acknowledged their limited exposure to AN understanding of ADRD and wish to receive culturally relevant training to better serve AN. Discussion and Implications As the older AN adult population grows, the need for culturally responsive training and support services will continue to increase. We recommend establishing rural outreach and support groups for caregivers, developing an understanding of how ANs view ADRD to train and educate health care providers, and implement screening early for memory loss during routine medical examinations.

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