DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/4D1K-7751
Defense Date
2020
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Dr. Joseph Dzierzewski
Second Advisor
Dr. Patricia Kinser
Third Advisor
Dr. Susan Bodnar-Deren
Fourth Advisor
Dr. Kirk Warren Brown
Fifth Advisor
Dr. David Chester
Abstract
As the United States population continues to age, the number of older adults with dementia is projected to rise. Much of the care for those with dementia is provided by unpaid, informal caregivers who are typically family members. Unfortunately, these informal caregivers express significantly higher levels of negative psychological and physical health outcomes compared to non-caregivers. One potential pathway for improving caregiver outcomes may be through increased mindfulness. Using a two-week, online-based mindfulness training program and a structurally equivalent cognitive reappraisal training program, study aims were to: 1.) investigate the acceptability and feasibility of using an online intervention format for caregivers, and 2.) explore preliminary findings of potential trends for the impact of mindfulness and reappraisal training for well-being, sleep, and stress outcomes in caregivers. Results suggested some positive trends for caregiver outcomes following either an online mindfulness or an online reappraisal training program. For several participants in the mindfulness condition, clinically meaningful reductions in depression and insomnia symptoms were exhibited. Future work should consider refining the training programs to be better suited to the needs of older adult dementia caregivers prior to large-scale efficacy trials.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
12-4-2020