3137 Feasibility and benefits of an online psychosocial group for family carers of people with Lewy body dementia

Abstract Introduction Family carers of people with Lewy body dementia (LBD) often experience poor mental and physical health, reduced quality of life and high levels of strain/burden. Effective carer interventions include psychoeducational or psychotherapeutic tailored to individual needs, with group interventions evaluated as the most effective. However, dementia carer interventions rarely address the symptoms of LBD, despite some evidence indicating specific group interventions can enhance understanding and reduce social isolation. Method The Lewy body dementia Admiral Nurse service is a UK based dementia specialist nurse model. Referrals via a national helpline are offered individualised, multicomponent interventions including psychoeducation and coping strategies. Support is delivered remotely through telephone or online video calls. In 2021 the service developed on online psychosocial group programme for family carers at earlier stages of their caring. This included 6 x 2-hour sessions aimed at supporting understanding of LBD, coping strategies, addressing emotional impact of caring and planning for the future. Mutual support and self -care was facilitated via small group sizes. Carers were assessed prior to attending to ensure suitability. Feedback was gathered via an anonymised survey and wellbeing measured using Warwick Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale. Results The programme has been offered to 4 separate groups (4–6 participants). Survey feedback (n = 15) indicated a positive difference to understanding of the condition, increased confidence in coping, development of new skills and feeling supported/connected with others across all respondents. Wellbeing scores improved overall on average, by approximately 6 points (43.3–49.1). Conclusion Initial feedback and outcomes indicate this intervention was acceptable and made a positive difference to coping and wellbeing for those who took part. Further research is required to fully evaluate the impact and benefits of online psychoeducational groups for family carers of people with Lewy body dementia at different stages of their role.