[Survey on peer support programs for family members and other caregivers of people with dementia in Japan].

OBJECTIVE

Peer support, including family associations and dementia cafés, helps reduce the psychological burden on patients with dementia and their caregivers. By considering various aspects of peer support, this study aimed to determine its psychological impact on caregivers, efficacy, and related challenges.

METHOD: In June 2023, we conducted a web-based questionnaire survey of caregivers of people with dementia.

RESULTS

Among 3,318 respondents, 29.3% were aware of peer support, but only 14.0% participated. The important determinants of participation were low time-related and psychological barriers. Among the participants, 46.4% learned about peer support from a care manager, which is a significantly higher proportion than from other sources (p<0.001). The question of whether the means of obtaining information was "psychologically positive" was answered positively by more peer support participants (62.4%) than by non-participants (individuals who obtained information outside of peer support; 59.5%; p=0.390). Participation was rated as "psychologically positive" by a significantly higher proportion (93.9%) of caregivers still participating in peer support than by those who no longer participated (55.9%; p<0.001). Reasons for continued participation included ease of participation and enjoyment.

DISCUSSION AND

CONCLUSION

The survey revealed a positive psychological impact of peer support, which was higher among those who continued to participate. Caregivers of people with dementia need to be informed about the availability and efficacy of peer support soon after a dementia diagnosis. To ensure the continuous provision of support, the convenience and design of peer support needs to be improved in response to various care needs.