Mentalizing Imagery Therapy mobile application for family dementia caregivers: feasibility and effects on mood and caregiving
A. Sikder, F. Yang, R. Schafer, G. Dowling, L. Traeger, Felipe A Jain
October 5, 2018 DOI: 10.31231/osf.io/cgpfs (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Pilot trial Pilot study |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 21 |
| Population | Family caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias |
| Duration | 4 weeks |
| Key findings | The app was feasible: 80% of 21 consented caregivers used it at least once, averaging 14 of 28 days and 29 sessions. Mood improved acutely after exercises, positive affect increased and negative affect decreased over four weeks, and three participants with severe baseline depression improved by an average of 30%. Interviews described increased ability to remain "centered," take the loved one's perspective, and positively reframe caregiving. |
Abstract
Objectives: Due to psychological and physical strain, family caregivers of patients with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias are at high risk for depression and stress related disorders. We investigated the feasibility of a mobile application (App) intervention delivering Mentalizing Imagery Therapy (MIT), which incorporates guided imagery and mindfulness, to facilitate self-regulation and increase perspective on the mental life of self and others.
Method: A 4-week pilot trial of an MIT App for family caregivers of people with dementia was conducted to assess feasibility of use, mood and depression symptom benefit, and relationship changes. Semi-structured interviews were conducted at the study’s conclusion to characterize participants’ perceived benefits.
Results: 80% of 21 consented participants downloaded the App, utilized it at least once, and were further analyzed. Of these participants, average usage of audio recordings was 14 ± 10 (SD) days out of 28 possible, and 29 ± 28 individual sessions. Acute improvement in mood from before to after completion of exercises was uniformly observed (p < .001), and after four weeks there was a significant increase in positive affect and a reduction in negative affect. Participants with severe levels of depression (n=3) at baseline exhibited an improvement in symptoms at 4 weeks averaging 30% (p < .05). Semi-structured interviews revealed an increase in the ability to remain “centered" despite caregiving challenges, take the perspective of the loved one, and positively reframe the caregiver experience.Conclusion: App delivery of MIT is feasible for family dementia caregivers. Results showed moderate to high usage of the app for a majority of the users, and promising improvements in mood and depression. These data provide justification for larger, controlled trials.