Association of commitment to values on family caregivers’ depression: Examination of the stress process model

This study aims to focus on personal values, a key component of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and to examine their role in the stress process model of famil caregivers. A screening survey of 6000 people aged 65 years and older was conducted, and data from 247 family caregivers who met the inclusion criteria were analyzed. The hypothesis model included the cognitive and daily functioning of individuals with dementia, behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, caregivers’ personal values, and depression. Structural equation modeling showed that the stress process model of caregivers with personal values fit the data very well. Both aspects of caregiver behavior, progress and obstruction toward acting in accordance with personal values, significantly affected caregiver depression. One of the main components of ACT, progressive and obstructive behaviors toward personal values, was significantly associated with family caregiver depression. The personal values of family caregivers are important for maintaining their mental health.