Through Alzheimer's Eyes: A Virtual Pilot Intervention for Family Caregivers of People with Dementia

Objective: To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a virtually delivered psychoeducational skill-building intervention for ADRD caregivers.

Methods: A single-arm, pre-posttest pilot study design was employed to evaluate the intervention. Four 90-min group-based weekly sessions were combined with four individual coaching sessions via Zoom. Intervention components covered topics designed to reduce caregiver stress and distress, and a VR experience to help caregivers understand dementia. Data was gathered via REDCap pre- and post-intervention and through post-intervention interviews via Zoom.

Results: Results (N = 20) from individual interviews, surveys, and treatment implementation strategies suggest strong feasibility and acceptability. Key change exploration indicated medium effect sizes and statistical significance in preparedness for caregiving (t(19) = 2.69, p = .015, d = 63), communication (t(19) = 2.45, p = .024, d = 0.55), and a medium effect size for the mindful attention awareness scale (t(19) = 0.48, p = (0.637, d = 0.54). Further, participants reported their perceptions of improvement in outcomes such as the ability to care, increased understanding of memory loss, and confidence.

Conclusions: Through Alzheimer's Eyes is a feasible and acceptable intervention that blends technology with skill-building strategies to help caregivers manage their stress and distress regardless of their location.

Clinical implications: There is potential for interventions including VR to assist family caregivers in managing caregiving challenges and improve well-being.