Research Article
Issue Date: September/October 2017
Published Online: July 28, 2017
Updated: April 30, 2020
Family Caregiver Training Program (FCTP): A Randomized Controlled Trial
Rosanne DiZazzo-Miller; Kristin Winston; Sandra L. Winkler; Mary L. Donovan
Author Affiliations
  • Rosanne DiZazzo-Miller, PhD, DrOT, OTRL, CDP, is Assistant Professor, Occupational Therapy Program, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI; ar7975@wayne.edu
  • Kristin Winston, PhD, OTR/L, is PhD Program Director and Associate Professor, Occupational Therapy Department, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL
  • Sandra L. Winkler, PhD, OTR/L, is Research Health Science Specialist, James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital Center of Innovation in Disabilities and Rehabilitation Research, Tampa, FL
  • Mary L. Donovan, PhD, OTR/L, is Owner and Consultant, Positive Dementia Paths, Duluth, MN
Article Information
Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia / Mental Health / Neurologic Conditions / Professional Issues / Special Issue: Research Articles
Research Article   |   July 28, 2017
Family Caregiver Training Program (FCTP): A Randomized Controlled Trial
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, July 2017, Vol. 71, 7105190010. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2017.022459
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, July 2017, Vol. 71, 7105190010. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2017.022459
Abstract

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the Family Caregiver Training Program (FCTP) for caregivers of people with dementia.

METHOD. A random assignment control group research design with a 3-mo follow-up was implemented.

RESULTS. Thirty-six family caregivers of people with dementia demonstrated an increase in activity of daily living (ADL) knowledge (p < .001) and maintenance of that knowledge 3 mo posttest. Caregiver confidence, regardless of group assignment, improved; however, it was not maintained. Burden, depression, and occupational performance and satisfaction remained unchanged for the intervention group; however, physical health as it pertained to quality of life improved 3 mo posttest (p < .001).

CONCLUSION. Findings demonstrate that the FCTP can effectively provide knowledge to family caregivers on how to assist people with dementia with ADLs. Even when standard care was provided, there was limited information on ADLs that family caregivers faced daily.