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BMC Geriatrics

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Open Access 01-12-2022 | Dementia | Research

Planning and designing a self-compassion intervention for family carers of people living with dementia: a person-based and co-design approach

Authors: Jenny Murfield, Wendy Moyle, Analise O’Donovan

Published in: BMC Geriatrics | Issue 1/2022

Abstract

Background

This article describes the research activities undertaken to plan and design a self-compassion intervention for family carers of people living with dementia using a person-based and co-design approach. In providing this example, our aim is two-fold: to highlight the value of using qualitative research and co-design processes within intervention development; and to showcase systematic reporting of an intervention’s early planning and design stages.

Methods

A person-based and co-design approach informed the planning and design of the self-compassion intervention. In Stage 1, qualitative interviews were undertaken with 14 family carers of people living with dementia and 14 professional stakeholders. In Stage 2, intervention guiding principles were developed, psychological theory was incorporated, and six family carers of people living with dementia were engaged as co-designers.

Results

Knowledge generated during intervention planning identified that the intervention should be situated within the concept of compassion more broadly; address misperceptions, fears, blocks, and resistances to self-compassion; and target feelings of shame, guilt, and self-criticism. Subsequent intervention design activities determined that the needs of family carers of people living with dementia were best met by tailoring an existing intervention, namely group-based Compassion-Focused Therapy.

Conclusions

Our systematic approach highlights the value of incorporating in-depth qualitative research and co-design within the intervention development process to prioritise the perspectives and lived experiences of family carers of people living with dementia. The planning and design process outlined provides insight that is applicable to the development of our intervention and complex health interventions within gerontology and beyond.

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Title: Planning and designing a self-compassion intervention for family carers of people living with dementia: a person-based and co-design approach
Authors: Jenny Murfield
Wendy Moyle
Analise O’Donovan
Publication date: 01-12-2022
Publisher: BioMed Central
Keywords: Dementia
Dementia
Published in: BMC Geriatrics / Issue 1/2022
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2318
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12877-022-02754-9

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