Evaluating an online peer support and acceptance and commitment therapy (act) informed intervention for caregivers of adults with asd and learning difficulties: a mixed-methods study

Background: Caregivers of individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and learning<br/>difficulties (LD) face unique challenges impacting their well-being. This study evaluates an<br/>online Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)-informed intervention for caregivers of<br/>adults with ASD/LD in Peru.<br/><br/>Objectives: Assess the feasibility, acceptability, adherence, and impact of an online ACT-<br/>informed intervention compared to an online peer support group and a control group.<br/><br/>Methods: A mixed-methods, multiple-baseline experimental design was used. Participants<br/>were assigned to a control condition or one of two intervention conditions: ACT-informed<br/>intervention or peer support group. Both interventions consisted of 8-week, 1-hour weekly<br/>online sessions. The study examined the interventions' impact on mental health and wellbeing,<br/>feasibility, acceptability, adherence, implementation barriers and facilitators, and effects on<br/>adults with ASD/LD.<br/><br/>Results: Preliminary findings indicate positive outcomes for intervention group participants.<br/>Qualitative data suggest improvements in self-care, coping strategies, and tolerance.<br/>Participants reported feeling supported, understood, and less isolated, with some noting<br/>positive changes in relationships with their children. Quantitative analysis and Reflexive<br/>Thematic Analysis are ongoing.<br/>Conclusions: Initial results suggest online ACT-informed interventions and peer support<br/>groups may benefit caregivers of adults with ASD/LD in Peru, highlighting the potential of<br/>technology-based interventions to enhance accessibility and sustainability of caregiver<br/>support. Further analysis will provide more detailed insights into intervention effectiveness and<br/>impact on caregivers and their adult children with ASD/LD.