An Implementation Study on COMPAs: An App Designed to Support Communication Between Persons Living with Dementia in Long-Term Care and Their Caregivers
ABSTRACT
Background:
Background:
People with dementia (PWDs) experience loss of autonomy and require caregiver support on a daily basis. Dementia is characterized by progressive communication disorders: a decrease in exchanges, leading to isolation in both the PWD and the caregiver, who also experiences stress and increasing burden, making caregivers particularly susceptible to burnout. This has negative effects on both party’s quality of life.
Objective:
Objective:
This study examines the efficacy of COMPAs, an app designed on the principles of person-centered and emotional communication, which is intended to improve well-being in PWDs and caregivers and reduce caregiver burden.
Methods:
Methods:
In this implementation study, caregivers in two long-term care facilities were trained in COMPAs use and strategies to improve communication with PWDs. Measures were taken before and after 8 weeks of intervention with COMPAs. Qualitative and quantitative analyses, semi-structured interviews and questionnaires were completed.
Results:
Results:
COMPAs interventions resulted in improved quality of communication and quality of life among PWDs and caregivers. They were associated with a reduction in caregiver burden and a feeling of personal accomplishment.
Conclusions:
COMPAs contributes to well-being in PWDs and their caregivers, by improving communication within the dyad, increasing empathy, and reducing burden in caregivers, thus representing a relevant tool in the context of dementia care. Clinical Trial: Non applicable
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