Reducing Depression in Dementia Caregivers

Family caregivers of individuals with dementia commonly report depressive symptoms, along with other forms of emotional distress. This study compared the effectiveness of two home-based interventions to reduce levels of depressed, anxious, and other negative moods in women living with a family member with dementia. Eligible caregivers were randomly assigned to participate in either a video/workbook/telephone coaching intervention, or to a basic education condition consisting of a workbook and supportive telephone calls. Participants were evaluated for psychosocial distress after treatment, and at 3- and 6-months following the end of intervention.