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

Accepted version
Peer-reviewed

Type

Article

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Authors

Davies, Anna 
Brini, Stefano 
Hirani, Shashivadan 
Gathercole, Rebecca 
Forsyth, Kirsty 

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.

Description

Keywords

assistive technology, caregiver burden, dementia, informal caregiver, mental health, telecare

Journal Title

Alzheimers Dement (N Y)

Conference Name

Journal ISSN

2352-8737
2352-8737

Volume Title

6

Publisher

Wiley

Rights

All rights reserved