Primary Impact Trajectories of a Psychoeducational Program for Nursing Home Caregivers: Insights from Clinical Case Studies.

Abstract

The decision to place a loved one with dementia in a specialized facility is often associated with significant psychological distress among family caregivers, which often manifests itself in feelings of guilt, helplessness, and emotional tension. We conducted a pilot implementation of a seven-session psychoeducational group program designed to support family caregivers during the critical transition from home care to nursing home placement. The intervention included weekly modules addressing fundamental topics such as how nursing homes operate, managing behavioral disorders, end-of-life considerations, and sources of stress for caregivers. Among the 12 initial participants enrolled in the program, we present three illustrative cases that reflect distinct impact trajectories depending on caregiver profiles. Two caregivers showed substantial psychological and relational improvement, characterized by greater acceptance of institutional placement and enhanced coping strategies. In contrast, the third case highlighted the program's limitations in addressing more complex emotional and relational dynamics. These results suggest that, while psychoeducational intervention can facilitate emotional adaptation and promote reevaluation of the relationship between the caregiver and the care recipient, its effectiveness may be limited in cases requiring individualized psychological support. Adapting the intervention to include more flexible and personalized components, such as optional individual or family consultations, could enhance its relevance and effectiveness in meeting the diverse needs of caregivers.