Acceptance Commitment Therapy for Adults With Mild or Major Neurocognitive Disorder and Their Care Partners Using In-Person and Telehealth Therapy

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate a special therapy called Acceptance Commitment Therapy ACT for people diagnosed with mild neurocognitive disorder MNCD or mild cognitive impairment MCI and their care partners. Alzheimers disease and related dementias are serious conditions that affect millions, mostly older adults, and this study focuses on helping both the individuals with these conditions and those who support them. The project looks to see if this therapy is practical, acceptable, and shows early signs of effectiveness in improving mental health and coping. The study uses ACT, a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy designed to increase psychological flexibility through six core processes like acceptance and values clarification. This therapy is provided to both the person with MNCD or MCI and their care partner, who is usually a family member or friend. The intervention is delivered in person and via telehealth, focusing on committed actions aligned with personal values rather than trying to remove difficult thoughts or feelings. Participants will be assessed during and six weeks after the therapy using various questionnaires and scales that measure depression, anxiety, grief, coping, stress, hope, sleep quality, and cognitive function. The study also examines the effects of therapy on both members of the dyad. Care partners and individuals with MNCD or MCI will communicate in English and be monitored for mental health and wellbeing outcomes. The study is expected to run until the end of 2027, with ongoing evaluation of feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary benefits.

ACT for Individuals With MNCD and Their Care Partners