523 - The design and implementation of Comprehensive Resilience-building psychosocial Intervention (CREST) for people with memory problems/dementia in the community: a pilot study

Abstract

Background: In Ireland, approximately 65,000 people live with memory problems/dementia (PWMP).Most live in the community, supported by informal caregivers such as relatives. A comprehensiveresilience-building psychosocial intervention (CREST) to strengthen intra-and interpersonal resourceswas piloted by PWMP and caregiver dyads, local GPs, and the community.Methodology: An advisory forum of PWMP, caregivers, and dementia advocacy representativesprovided guidance on the intervention design and materials (e.g., interview guides), to ensure theyaddressed the needs of PWMP and caregivers. The 15-week CREST intervention comprised threecomponents: cognitive stimulation therapy for PWMP (CST; 7 weeks), physical exercise for PWMP andpartners from the community (8 weeks), and dementia education for key supporters of PWMP:caregivers (6 weeks), GPs, and the community (one-off events). Intervention processes (e.g., recruitment, data collection measures) were evaluated at each stage by PWMP and caregivers throughqualitative (verbal feedback, interviews) and quantitative methods (ratings, questionnaires), to ensurethey were feasible and acceptable. Findings: Nine PWMP/caregiver dyads were recruited and completed the CREST intervention;attendance was consistently high (90-95%) throughout. The dyads reported that the recruitmentmaterials, phone calls, and letters from the research team were helpful and easy to understand.Feedback from PWMP, caregivers, event attendees, and programme facilitators confirmed that thintervention content and delivery were acceptable. Minor changes were recommended, and changeswhich facilitated participation by the PWMP during this pilot (e.g., giving verbal rather than writtenfeedback, larger-print handouts) were implemented immediately. The PWMP enjoyed the CST activities(e.g., collages, tasting childhood sweets) and the "bit of fun" the group shared; some also perceivedimprovements in concentration and confidence. The PWMP enjoyed the group Exercise sessions,particularly the social aspects (e.g., "banter", exercising with partners), and some reported improvedfitness and feeling less breathless. Caregivers felt better informed about managing dementia andcommunicating with PWMP and enjoyed sharing experiences with other caregivers. Attendees at thecommunity and GP education events reported improved knowledge of dementia.Conclusion: The involvement of the PWMP and caregivers was valuable to the iteration of the pilotCREST intervention. Consultations with both groups are ongoing to inform future research priorities.