The effect of a family therapy and technology-based intervention on caregiver depression

Citation Eisendorfer, C., Czaja, S.J., Loewenstein, D.A., Rubert, M.P., Arguelles, S., Mitrani, V.B. & Szapocznik, J. (2003). The effect of a family therapy and technology-based intervention on caregiver depression. The Gerontologist, 43(4), 521-531.

Design Stratified randomization scheme

Participants The participants of this study were 225 White American and Cuban American caregivers of patients with Alzheimer's disease

Outcome / Dependent Variables Caregiver depression measured on the CES-D scale

Procedure Three levels of intervention were investigated: Structural Ecosystems Therapy (SET): Therapy to identify and restructure interactions between the family and other systems possibly linked to caregiver burden, SET + Computer-Telephone Integrated System: Information technology designed to facilitate linkages with family and supportive resources to augment therapy, and Minimal Support Control: Telephone-based support without info on dementia or recommendations.

Outcomes Caregivers in the combined family therapy and technology intervention experienced a significant reduction in depressive symptoms at 6 months. At 18 months follow-up both White American and Cuban American participants in combined condition had reductions in CES-D scores approaching 5 points. Family therapy itself did not have a significant effect on depressive symptoms for most caregivers.

Author Eisendorfer, C., Czaja, S.J., Loewenstein, D.A., Rubert, M.P., Arguelles, S., Mitrani, V.B. & Szapocznik, J.