Self-compassion interventions for family caregivers of people with dementia: a scoping review.

OBJECTIVES

to identify interventions with the potential to foster self-compassion among family caregivers of people with dementia.

METHODS

we conducted a scoping review across eight databases using the search terms dementia, self-compassion, empathy, family, caregivers, and mental health. We included English-language articles addressing mindfulnessand/or compassion-based interventions. Three reviewers performed study selection with support from the Rayyan software.

RESULTS

of the 280 records identified, six studies were included. Interventions involved yoga, mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, self-compassion-based therapy, and mentalization. Three studies reported increased self-compassion.

CONCLUSIONS

the literature suggests that some interventions may support the development of self-compassion among caregivers of people with dementia.