Feasibility and Acceptability of Group-Based Interventions (Offered in English and Spanish) for Caregivers of Children With LAD.

BACKGROUND

Caregivers of children with learning and attentional disabilities (LAD) are at risk for chronic stress and its sequalae, yet there are few interventions to support these caregivers.

OBJECTIVE

Assess the feasibility and acceptability of a mind-body resiliency group intervention for caregivers of children with LAD.

METHODS

Four adapted groups of the Stress Management and Resiliency Training (SMART-LAD) and, its comparator, the Health Education Program (HEP-LAD) were offered to English and Spanish speaking caregivers of children with LAD. Caregivers were recruited from a family services organization who completed baseline and post-treatment surveys.

RESULTS

From 12/24-2/25, 28 participants were enrolled in four groups. 94.6% screened were eligible (35/37); 80% (28/35) enrolled. 83% completed the follow-up survey. Two-thirds attended 6 or more sessions. 91.7% of participants in both groups expressed comfort/trust.

CONCLUSION

Both interventions are feasible and acceptable. The SMART-LAD program may have fostered deeper engagement and content satisfaction.

CLINICALTRIALSGOV REGISTRY: Resiliency Programming for Caregivers of Children with Learning and Attentional Difficulties (SPARK), https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06492278, NCT06492278 IRB 2024P001219.