MAPS: Music and psychology & social connections – a protocol for a pilot dyadic intervention for caregivers and people living with younger‐onset dementia

Background Younger-onset dementia (YOD) has its onset at <65 years old, represents 5% of all dementias and affects people their families during significant productive life. People living with YOD caregivers face unique challenges, can feel isolated, less supported higher risk depressive anxiety symptoms. There is a scarcity interventions for both YOD. Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) music (MT) have evidence-based positive effects in older adults caregivers, but are yet to be trialled younger people. MT may perceived as threatening motivate engagement. Social networking also useful forum sharing content been previously utilised caregiver support groups. Method MAPS 7-week manualised online group program dyads. Weekly sessions (80-90 minutes break) will co-facilitated by psychologist therapist, include joint members the dyad (sessions 1 6), separate 2 5). The two major themes are: 1) Dealing challenges changes associated being caregiver/living YOD; 2) Finding ways focusing on things they value. utilise combination CBT techniques methods, production songs per “homework”. A closed, private Facebook used resources. outcome measure improvement Depression Anxiety Stress Scores, using DASS21. Focus groups qualitative feedback occur final session, 7. Result Pending Conclusion If successful this pilot ability expanded larger outreach.