Effects of a 16-Week Buddy-Up Physical Activity Program on Health and Relationship of People with Mild to Moderate Dementia and Their Family Caregivers

What this Trial Is About

Dementia care presents significant challenges, with a rising global cost expected to increase further. This research focuses on the dynamic relationship between persons with dementia PwD and their family caregivers, which affects both social interactions and mental health. The study evaluates how a 16-week enhanced Buddy-Up Dyadic Physical Activity BUDPA program may influence the health and relationship dynamics of these care dyads, aiming to improve cognitive function and mood for both parties. The study compares the enhanced BUDPA program to usual care in a randomized controlled trial across eight elderly community centers. The BUDPA program is structured into three phases over 16 weeks a conditioning phase introducing exercises, a consolidating phase with group exercise sessions followed by debriefing and goal-setting, and a habituating phase supporting integration of partner exercises into daily life with video call support. The control group receives usual dementia or caregiver support services with delayed access to the program. Participants will be assessed at baseline, immediately after the 16-week program, and at 3 and 6 months after completion. Evaluations include cognitive tests for PwD, mood assessments for caregivers, quality of life, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and the quality of the dyadic relationship. Participants record self-practice in logbooks, and video call meetings provide additional support. Outcomes will help understand the programs impact on cognitive, emotional, and relational health over time.

Buddy-Up Dyadic Physical Activity Program for Persons With Dementia and Family Caregivers