A randomized controlled trial of the "positive diary" intervention for family caregivers of people with dementia.

Abstract

Purpose: We examined the effectiveness of the "positive diary," in which family caregivers of people with dementia write down three good things that happened with reasons at the end of each day.

Design and methods: In this randomized controlled trial, the intervention group used the "positive diary," while the control group kept a record of each meal for 4 weeks.

Findings: The intervention group showed improvement on several measures of wellbeing including Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire and Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale.

Practice implications: The "positive diary" is a useful self-care tool for caregivers of people with dementia.