e-Learning and Web-Based Tools for Psychosocial Interventions Addressing Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Dementia During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Tokyo, Japan: Quasi-Experimental Study

• DOI: 10.2196/30652
• Publication Date: 2021-09-20T17:08:00Z
• Authors: Miharu Nakanishi; Syudo Yamasaki; Kaori Endo; Junko Niimura; Canan Ziylan; Ton J E M Bakker; Eva Granvik; Katarina Nägga; Atsushi Nishida
• Keywords: Pandemic; Social distance

Concern has been raised that the COVID-19 pandemic and consequent social distancing measures may increase neuropsychiatric symptoms in people with dementia. Thus, we developed delivered an e-learning training course to professional caregivers on using a web-based tool for psychosocial interventions dementia.The aim of our study was evaluate feasibility efficacy combination addressing dementia.A quasi-experimental design used Tokyo, Japan. The three times between July December 2020. Caregivers who completed assessed level dementia total score from Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) via tool. primary outcome were number implemented follow-up NPI evaluations by March 2021 change scores baseline their most recent evaluations. As control group, information also obtained face-to-face same 2019 2020.A 268 Of caregivers, 56 (20.9%) underwent 63 persons average significantly reduced (mean 20.4, SD 16.2) 14.3, 13.4). effect size assumed be medium (Cohen drm [repeated measures]=0.40). group consisted 252 course. 114 (45.2%) Compared less likely implement (χ21=52.0, P<.001). did not differ according type (baseline-adjusted difference=-0.61, P=.69).The replacement have provided professionals opportunity participate behavior analysis support enhancement (DEMBASE) program participated otherwise. Although showed equal terms two courses, suboptimal lower implementation levels those receiving training. further strategies should improve providing motivational triggers technical care professionals. Using online communities investigated.