Mindfulness-based Movement Therapy for Persons With Dementia and Family Caregivers

This study aims to investigate the feasibility and acceptability of a novel intervention, the CARE-MOVE program, which combines mindfulness-based dance/movement therapy (M-DMT), psychoeducation, and a support group for dementia care partners. The study also aims to provide proof of concept for the potential effects of the intervention on reducing stress, improving psychological well-being, and enhancing the caregiving relationship.

Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18 years or older * Informal care partner of a person living with dementia and has known the care recipient for at least 1 year * Care recipient has a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia, vascular dementia, Lewy body disease, or mixed dementia * English speaking * Normal or corrected-to-normal visual acuity and normal color vision, based on self-report * Adequate hearing acuity, based on self-report * Able to use a tablet or computer, email, and complete online surveys independently or with readily available assistance * Has internet access with Wi-Fi at the location where CARE-MOVE sessions will be attended * Able to safely participate in a light- to moderate-intensity movement-based intervention * Willing to participate in the CARE-MOVE intervention Exclusion Criteria: * Health condition that may contraindicate participation in light- to moderate-intensity movement, such as an unstable cardiac condition, previous myocardial infarction, angina, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, unless medical clearance is provided by a physician * Surgery within the previous 1 year * New pain medication or psychotropic medication, or a change in pain or psychotropic medication, within the previous 60 days