NegotiAge-An AI-Based Caregiver Negotiation Training: Results From the Multiphase Optimization Strategy (MOST) Trial

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Artificial Intelligence
• Health Psychology

Background:

• Family caregivers for people with Alzheimer's dementia (PWD) face significant conflicts, leading to frustration, burden, and stress.
• Caregivers often lack formal training in conflict resolution strategies.
• An artificial intelligence (AI)-based negotiation training intervention, NegotiAge, was developed to address these challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To optimize the potency and test the early effects of the NegotiAge intervention on family caregivers of PWD.
• To evaluate the impact of AI-driven negotiation training on caregiver burden and negative affect.

Main Methods:

• A national randomized factorial trial involving 125 family caregivers of PWD (age >65) across eight conditions.
• Mixed methods approach utilizing dependent sample t-tests for quantitative data and constant comparative analysis for qualitative data.
• Assessment of variables and outcomes at baseline and one month post-intervention.

Main Results:

• Participants reported significant reductions in caregiver burden (p < 0.002) and negative affect (p < 0.0001) after one month.
• Caregivers engaging in two or more negotiation exercises experienced further significant burden reduction (p < 0.04).
• Qualitative feedback indicated improved conflict management skills and reduced "forcing" behaviors (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions:

• The AI-based NegotiAge intervention effectively reduced burden and negative affect in family caregivers.
• Increased engagement with negotiation exercises amplified the positive effects on caregiver burden.
• NegotiAge shows promise for improving the well-being of family caregivers and people with dementia, warranting further investigation into long-term impacts.