ERIC Number: ED237845
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1982-May-20
Pages: 6
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Multi-Family Psychoeducational Support Group Therapy for Families with a Member Afflicted with Irreversible Brain Syndrome (Alzheimer's Disease): Report of a Pilot Study.
Paley, Evelyn S.; And Others
Alzheimers Disease (AD), an incurable disability which afflicts older adults, can have devastating emotional consequences for the victim and the family. In an attempt to determine the effectiveness of multifamily psychoeducational support, group therapy (MFPSGT), 22 persons (13 families) from the Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Association (ADRDA) participated in a pilot support group. Prior to group sessions, members participated in individual interviews and completed a questionnaire about AD and the Moos Family Environment Scale. An Activities of Daily Living (ADL) questionnaire and the Kahn Mental Status Exam were completed for the patient. Members subsequently participated in six group sessions, consisting of a 1-hour lecture, and four small group discussions led by a facilitator. The six session topics were: the aging process; biological changes and behavioral manifestations; behavior management; family communication patterns; emotional factors (grief); and community and nursing home supports. Post intervention, the participants evaluated the sessions and were readministered the psychological assessment instruments. An analysis of the results showed that, as expected, no significant changes occurred in the patients, although a slight increase in ADL functioning was reported. Relatives did become more independent after the intervention, recognizing and fulfilling their own needs in order to better serve the patient. Lectures identified as most helpful were: the aging process; biological aspects; family problems; and grief. The small groups were viewed as helpful in increasing coping and decision making skills. (BL)
Publication Type: Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Researchers; Practitioners
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A