Document Type
Paper
Publication Date
3-31-2026
Abstract
Caring for individuals with dementia is associated with an increased mental strain, stress, anxiety, and depression. This paper explores mental health issues that can derive from caring for people living with dementia. Dementia is a highly progressive condition that impacts cognition and behavior, which affects both the individual and caregiver. While caregiving provides meaningful skills and a strong meaning to life, it also presents unpredictability and emotional distress. This paper highlights evidence-based supports to reduce mental health illnesses and burdens on caregivers. Supports such as social networks, digital mental health tools, mobile apps, and validation therapy are noted to be helpful for caregivers. Assistive technologies are also noted to promote independence for individuals with dementia and improve carers' mental well-being and relationship with the individual. Implementing these supports can improve caregiver mental health and promote independence for both the individual with dementia and the caregiver, along with a more positive experience of caring for others.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-Share Alike 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Kendra Spitzer. "Supporting the Supporters: Reducing Stress for at Home Dementia Caregivers" (2026). Psychology Student Publications. 126.
https://commons.und.edu/psych-stu/126