Early-stage memory loss support groups: outcomes from a randomized controlled clinical trial.
OBJECTIVE
This article describes results of a randomized controlled trial comparing a time-limited early-stage memory loss (ESML) support group program conducted by a local Alzheimer's Association chapter to a wait-list (WL) control condition.


METHODS
One hundred and forty-two dyads were randomized in blocks to ESML (n = 96) or WL (n = 46). Mean age of participants was 74.9 years, and mean Mini-Mental State Examination was 23.4. The primary outcome was participant's quality of life; secondary outcomes included mood, family communication, and perceived stress.


RESULTS
On the intent-to-treat (ITT) pre-post analysis, significant differences were seen in participant quality of life (p < .001), depression (p < .01), and family communication (p < .05). Within the care partner groups, there was no significant difference between ESML and WL in the ITT analysis. A post hoc exploratory examination of changes that were associated with improved quality of life in ESML participants revealed significant reductions of depressive symptoms and behavior problems (p < .05), improved family communication (p < .05), self-efficacy (p < .01), Medical Outcomes Study short form (SF-36) role-emotional (p < .05), SF-36 social functioning (p < .05), and SF-36 mental health components (p < .01) in improvers.


CONCLUSIONS
These results support the efficacy of ESML support groups for individuals with dementia.
Logsdon
Rebecca G
RG
Department of Psychosocial & Community Health, University of Washington School of Nursing, 9709 3rd Avenue NE, Suite 507, Seattle, WA 98155-2053, USA. logsdon@u.washington.edu
Pike
Kenneth C
KC
McCurry
Susan M
SM
Hunter
Patricia
P
Maher
Joanne
J
Snyder
Lisa
L
Teri
Linda
L
D000368:Aged; D003142:Communication; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D008569:Memory Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D011788:Quality of Life; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012657:Self-Help Groups; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000517:prevention & control; D016896:Treatment Outcome