MultiTANDEM: Training the Trainer to Improve Homecare for People with Dementia

Abstract

The MultiTANDEM system trains management staff at outpatient nursing facilities to be TANDEM trainers (i.e., multiplicators for social-skills training) of professional and family caregivers for people with dementia. We used a pre-post-1-post-2 follow-up design to evaluate intervention and implementation success. Results showed a significant increase in the communication skills of caregivers and a significant reduction in family caregiver burden. Analyses of the implementation showed high acceptability among multiplicators and a high penetration of TANDEM trainings among their fellow staff members. An evaluation of the sustainability yielded heterogeneous results. Evaluation of impeding factors showed a reluctance among family caregivers to participate. Further studies with larger sample sizes and including all implementation outcomes are recommended.