Differential effects of family-based strategies on Alzheimer's disease

Assessed was the efficacy of a home-based program of cognitive stimulation for the functional status of patients with Alzheimer's disease, as well as the well-being of caregivers. Ten family dyads (caregiver and patient) participated in the intervention and six family dyads formed the comparison group. Patients in the program maintained their levels of cognitive and behavioral functioning while improving emotionally, whereas the comparison group patients deteriorated. Similarly, the caregivers in the program maintained well-being and enhanced their coping resources.