EBP Compendium: Summary of Systematic Review
Academy of Neurologic Communication Disorders and Sciences; American Speech-Language-Hearing Association; Department of Veterans Affairs
Evidence-Based Practice Recommendations for Dementia: Educating Caregivers on Alzheimer's Disease and Training Communication Strategies
Zientz, J., Rackley, A., et al.
(2007).
Journal of Medical Speech-Language Pathology, 15(1), liii-lxiv
Indicators of Review Quality:
|
The review addresses a clearly focused question
| No |
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Criteria for inclusion of studies are provided
| Yes |
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Search strategy is described in sufficient detail for replication
| Yes |
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Included studies are assessed for study quality
| Yes |
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Quality assessments are reproducible
| Yes |
Description: This is a review of experimental and observational studies that investigated the effects of caregiver education and training on the communication functioning of individuals with Alzheimer's disease. This review is part of a series of reports from the Academy of Neurologic Communication Disorders and Science specific to the assessment and management of individuals with dementia.
Question(s) Addressed:
Question not specifically stated.
Population: Adults with Alzheimer's disease and caregivers.
Intervention/Assessment: Caregiver education and training
Number of Studies Included: 6
Years Included: 1960 - 2002
Findings:
Conclusions:
- Service Delivery
- Provider
- Caregiver-Administered Treatment
- The findings support the education and training of caregivers to provide communication strategies to individuals with Alzheimer's disease.
- Preliminary evidence suggests that caregiver training may be beneficial to enhance communication skills. Caregiver training may contribute to improved conversation, maintenance of language ability and quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's disease.
- Caregiver education may contribute to reduced or increased caregiver burden.
Keywords: Alzheimer's Disease, Dementia, Patient/Family Education
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Added to Compendium: December 2011