A Systematic Evidence Review of Interventions for Non-professional Caregivers of Individuals With Dementia

The purpose of this report is to review systematically the evidence on the effects of caregiver (CG) interventions on CG burden, mood (including depression and anxiety), and the ability to manage problematic behavior, as well as the effects on the care recipient (CR). estimated that the total number of Veterans with dementia would be as high as 563,758 in FY 2010.1 Individuals with dementia are frequently cared for at home by a friend or family member. The progressive nature of the illness and the intensity of care that may be required in caring for a loved one with dementia have physical, emotional, and psychological impacts on the CG. The purpose of this report is to review systematically the evidence on the effects of CG interventions on CG burden, mood (including depression and anxiety), and ability to manage problematic behavior, as well as the effects on the CR. The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Office of Geriatrics and Extended Care (OGEC) in Patient Care Services has primary responsibility for coordination and direction of VHA dementia initiatives. OGEC convened an interdisciplinary Dementia Steering Committee (DSC) in December 2006, with the goal of making recommendations on comprehensive, coordinated care for Veterans with dementia. The DSC requested VA Health Services Research and Development's (HSR&D) Evidence-based Synthesis Program (ESP) to review evidence on selected topics, in order to assist with DSC planning efforts. The DSC served as the technical expert panel for guiding topic development and reviewing drafts of the report. The review was requested by the VHA DSC, and the DSC served as the technical expert panel for guiding topic development and reviewing drafts of the report. The objectives of this review are to address the following questions: Key Question #1: Do CG interventions affect the CG's knowledge and ability to manage problematic behavior, psychosocial burden, health and health behaviors, or outcomes in the individual with dementia? Key Question #2: What are adverse effects of CG interventions?