Caring for Caregivers (C4C): study protocol for a pilot feasibility randomised control trial of Positive Written Disclosure for olderudadult caregivers of people with psychosis

摘要

Background:udThe caregivers of people who experience psychosis are themselves at risk of developing physical andudmental health problems. This risk is increased for older adult caregivers who also have to manage the lifestyle andudhealth changes associated with ageing. As a consequence, older adult caregivers are in particular need of support;udwe propose a Written Emotional Disclosure (WED) intervention, called Positive Written Disclosure (PWD).udMethods/design:udThis is a pilot randomised controlled trial of PWD compared to a neutral writing control and a noudwriting condition. We aim to recruit 60 participants, 20 in each arm. This study will utilise a mixed-methodsudapproach and collect quantitative (questionnaires) and qualitative (interviews) data. Quantitative data will beudcollected at baseline and 1, 3, and 6 months post baseline. Participants who complete a writing task (PWD orudneutral writing control) will be invited to complete an exit interview to discuss their experiences of the interventionudand study. The study is supported by a patient and public involvement group.udDiscussion:udThe results of this trial will determine whether a definitive trial is justified. If so, the quantitative andudqualitative findings will be used to refine the intervention and study protocols.