An Experience Sampling Method Intervention for Dementia Caregivers : Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial

ABSTRACT Objective Ecological momentary interventions integrated with real-life assessments using the experience sampling method (ESM) could be promising to effectively support dementia caregivers in daily life. This study reports on the effectiveness of the ESM-based intervention ‘Partner in Sight'. Design, setting, participants A randomized controlled trial with 76 dementia caregivers was performed. Participants were randomly assigned to the intervention group (‘Partner in Sight': ESM self-monitoring and personalized feedback), pseudo-intervention group (ESM self-monitoring without feedback), or control group (usual care). Measurements Effects were evaluated pre- and post-intervention, and at two-months follow-up. Primary outcomes were retrospective measures of caregiver sense of competence and mastery. Secondary outcomes were retrospective measures of depression, anxiety, and perceived stress. Complementary, ESM measures of positive and negative affect were collected pre- and post-intervention. Results Both the experimental and pseudo-experimental group showed an increase in retrospective sense of competence and a decrease in perceived stress at two-months follow-up. At post-intervention, the experimental group showed a decrease in momentary negative affect compared to the pseudo-experimental and control group. No effects were found for retrospective mastery, depression, anxiety, and momentary positive affect. Conclusions ESM interventions could be an important asset to increase caregiver resources that could help to better adapt and manage difficult situations, and to protect against negative emotions.