Self-management and HeAlth Promotion in Early-stage dementia with e-learning for carers (SHAPE): study protocol for a...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Digital Health

Background:

• Growing global dementia population necessitates cost-effective interventions.
• Self-management strategies show promise in chronic conditions but are under-researched in dementia care.
• Limited advancements in dementia treatments highlight the need for innovative approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the SHAPE educational program for individuals with mild to moderate dementia.
• To assess the impact of the intervention on self-efficacy, health outcomes, and mental health in people with dementia.
• To examine the effects on care partner stress and dementia knowledge.

Main Methods:

• A multi-site, single-randomised, controlled, single-blinded trial involving 372 participants with mild to moderate dementia.
• Intervention group receives a 10-week group-based educational program focused on self-management and health promotion.
• Care partners receive a complementary e-learning course.
• Comparison is made against treatment as usual.

Main Results:

• The trial will explore the effect of the SHAPE group intervention on people with mild to moderate dementia.
• Key outcomes include self-efficacy, health and mental health improvements, and cost-effectiveness.
• Impact on carer stress and knowledge of dementia will also be investigated.

Conclusions:

• The SHAPE trial is expected to provide valuable insights into the benefits of a combined self-management, health promotion, and e-learning approach for dementia care.
• Findings will inform the development of scalable and cost-effective interventions for people with dementia and their care partners.
• This research addresses a critical gap in dementia self-management interventions.