Closed-Loop and Neuroplasticity-Based Mindfulness Program for Family Caregivers

The intervention includes three weekly 90-minute face-to-face mindfulness training sessions and daily guided self-practice using a closed-loop, neuroplasticity-based mobile app over 8 weeks. Training integrates mindfulness practices (e.g., mindful eating, body scanning) to help caregivers apply mindfulness in daily life. During self-practice, participants listen to a lesson, monitor distractions, and refocus on their breathing. Initial trials start at 20 seconds, adjusting by 10% if focused or decreasing by 20% if distracted, helping participants regulate attention. Progress is stored to continue in later sessions, with instant feedback during trials and delayed feedback on overall progress. Facilitators provide weekly follow-ups via the app to monitor caregivers' progress.

Family caregivers in the traditional mindfulness group will participate in general mindfulness practices (e.g., mindful eating, body scanning, and mindful walking) without the closed-loop approach. These practices aim to help caregivers learn mindfulness skills and integrate them into their everyday life. Sessions will be delivered through a mobile approach with the same group size, duration, and frequency as the intervention groups.

Family caregivers in the control group will receive self-directed e-learning on dementia care with support from a registered nurse experienced in dementia care or elderly care. This group will serve as a control for socialization and interaction aspects with peers and the interventionist (nurse). The self-directed learning will be delivered through a mobile approach, maintaining the same group size, duration, and frequency as the intervention groups. Educational content will include brief sessions on dementia care, caregiving skills, and group sharing of caregiving tasks.