Resources for Enhancing Alzheimer's Caregiver Health (REACH) Miami Site
Purpose
The interventions are aimed at reducing burden and depression in caregivers by enhancing family support
S
trategy
The approach uses Structural Ecosystems Therapy (a family systems therapy) and a teleconferencing-computer integrated phone to enhance the family support for dementia caregivers
Target Population
Cuban-American and Anglo-American dementia caregivers
Research Outcomes
The combined family therapy and technology intervention significantly reduced depression in caregivers, with particular benefits for Cuban-American husband and daughter caregivers over the long term (18 months).
Outcome Research References
Eisdorfer, C., Czaja, S., Loewenstein, D., Rubert, M., Argüelles, S., Mitrani, V., et al. (2003). The effect of a family therapy and technology-based intervention on caregiver depression. The Gerontologist, 43(4), 521-531.
Gitlin, L. N., Belle, S. H., Burgio, L. D., Czaja, S. J., Mahoney, D., Gallagher- Thompson, D., et al. (2003). Effect of multicomponent interventions on caregiver burden and depression: The REACH multisite initiative at 6- month follow-up. Psychology and Aging, 18, 361-374.
Clinical Approach References
Mitrani, V. B., & Czaja, S. J. (2000). Family-based therapy for dementia caregivers: Clinical observations. Aging & Mental Health, 4, 200–209.
Mittleman, M.,Szapocznik, J., Santisteban, D., Hervis, O., Spencer, F., & Kurtines, W. (1982). Life enhancement counseling and the treatment of depressed Cuban American elders. Hispanic Journal of Behavioral Sciences, 4, 487–502.
Szapocznik, J., Scopetta, M. A., Ceballos, A., & Santisteban, D. A. (1994). Understanding supporting and empowering families: From microanalysis to macrointervention [Special section]. Family Psychologist, 10, 23–27.
