Support groups for family members of older adults in residential aged care: A pilot feasibility study

Objectives

There are limited mental health support services in Australia that address the well-being of family members of aged care residents. The aim of this project was to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability and preliminary effectiveness of an online program designed to support residents' families.

Methods

This one-arm mixed methods project examined uptake, attendance and retention patterns, satisfaction and experience with the service, and pre- and postoutcomes with respect to depressive and anxiety symptoms and loneliness. The sample comprised 38 participants.

Results

The uptake, attendance and retention rates were high: 86%, 87% and 95%, respectively. Participants were satisfied with the content and format of the program. The benefits of participation included the following: connecting with peers, developing emotional well-being strategies, and learning about dementia and mental health issues. Suggestions for improving the program included the following: offering additional sessions and an option for meeting face-to-face. Symptoms of depression and anxiety improved significantly from pre- to postintervention time points, but loneliness did not statistically reduce over time.

Conclusions

This study found the family support group feasible and acceptable, and showed preliminary indications of effectiveness for improving depressive and anxiety symptoms for families of aged care residents.