The clinical effectiveness paper from the NIHR-funded iACT4CARERS trial has been published in The Lancet Regional Health – Europe, highlighting the potential of an online psychological support programme designed specifically for family carers of people living with dementia

Family carers play a vital role in supporting people with dementia, yet research shows they are at increased risk of anxiety, stress and other mental health difficulties. The iACT4CARERS programme was developed to provide accessible support through an online, therapist-supported intervention based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). The programme aims to help carers manage difficult thoughts and feelings while continuing to focus on the activities, relationships and values that matter most to them.

Delivered online and accessible via a computer, tablet or smartphone, iACT4CARERS consists of eight self-guided sessions supported by trained coaches and therapists. Participants complete activities, videos and exercises designed to build psychological flexibility and resilience while balancing the demands of their caring role.

Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust was a recruitment site for the study, with participants recruited through the Memory and Cognition Research Delivery Team. Annette Haddon-Silver served as Principal Investigator for the Oxford Health site, supported by two members of the Memory and Cognition Research Delivery Team, Sally Wells and Teresa Ingleby who were trained as coaches and provided support to participants taking part in the intervention.

The study was led by the University of East Anglia and funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). Researchers hope the findings will contribute to improving support options available to the growing number of people caring for family members living with dementia.

Annette Haddon-Silver, Principal Investigator on the trial said:

“Family carers make an invaluable contribution to the lives of people living with dementia, often while managing considerable pressures themselves. The publication of these findings is an important step in understanding how accessible, online psychological support can help carers look after their own wellbeing. We are proud to have contributed to this national study and grateful to the carers who gave their time to take part, helping to strengthen the evidence base for future dementia care and support.”

The paper is available to read open access in The Lancet Regional Health – Europe. Researchers and members of the public can access and download the publication.

Contact the Memory and Cognition Research Delivery team: dementia.research@oxfordhealth.nhs.uk