The impact of assistive technology on burden and psychological well-being in informal caregivers of people with dementia (ATTILA Study).

DOI: http://doi.org/10.1002/trc2.12064 Journal: Alzheimers Dement (N Y) E-pub date: 1 Aug 2020 Authors: A Davies, S Brini, S Hirani, R Gathercole, K Forsyth, C Henderson, R Bradley, L Davies, B Dunk, E Harper, N Lam, L Pank, I Leroi, J Woolham, C Fox, J O'Brien, A Bateman, F Poland, P Bentham, A Burns, R Gray, M Knapp, E Talbot, E Hooper, R Winson, B Scutt, V Ordonez, S Nunn, G Lavelle, R Howard, S Newman

The impact of assistive technology on burden and psychological well-being in informal caregivers of people with dementia (ATTILA Study).

Abstract:

INTRODUCTION: Assistive technology and telecare (ATT) may alleviate psychological burden in informal caregivers of people with dementia. This study assessed the impact of ATT on informal caregivers' burden and psychological well-being. METHODS: Individuals with dementia and their informal caregivers were recruited to a randomized-controlled trial assessing effectiveness of ATT. Caregivers were allocated to two groups according to their cared-for person's randomization to a full or basic package of ATT and were assessed on caregiver burden, state anxiety, and depression. Caregivers' data from three assessments over 6 months of the trial were analyzed. RESULTS: No significant between- or within-group differences at any time point on caregivers' burden, anxiety, and depression levels were found. DISCUSSION: Full ATT for people with dementia did not impact caregivers' psychological outcomes compared to basic ATT. The length of follow up was restricted to 6 months.