Health and social care research helps us learn about why we become ill and what we can do to stay well. It advances our knowledge so that we can find new treatments, change the way we deliver care, prevent illness and improve the environment, health and wellbeing of local populations.
We support research that benefits people who use our services and the communities we serve. We have studies for children and young people, dementia, substance misuse, eating disorders, learning disabilities and mental health.
An adapted form of talking therapy called ‘Problem Adaptation Therapy’ for people with Alzheimer’s disease who are experiencing depressive symptoms or low mood. This research will compare the Problem Adaptation Therapy to standard NHS treatment provided to people with Alzheimer’s disease who have become depressed. Update: This study is now also being completed remotely; either by telephone or via video call.
We are looking for people who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and who have been recognised by health professionals to be experiencing symptoms of depression. It is also required that they have a caregiver that supports them at least one hour per day, three times a week.
Individuals with dementia and their carers will have a 50% chance of being offered eight, one hour sessions of 'Problem Adaptation Therapy' over three months. Therapy will consist of two assessment sessions, five sessions focused on problem solving and one review session. There will also be two additional 1-hour ‘booster’ sessions, three months and six months later which will “top up” any potential benefits from the initial therapy by reviewing the problem-solving strategies used earlier. In sessions, the individual with Alzheimer’s and their caregiver will work together with the therapist.
If you are interested in the study or would like some more information please contact the Research and Development Department, on 01932 722247 or email research@sabp.nhs.uk. Alternatively you can contact the Principle Investigator Jane Gregg via email on jane.gregg@sabp.nhs.uk.
