Making Sense of Memory Loss – Online

Purpose: We describe the results of a pilot study testing implementation and outcomes of an online, worksite-based dementia education program. The process for development, implementation and initial findings will be presented. Design and Methods: Making Sense of Memory Loss (MSML) – Online is comprised of two web-based programs for family members of someone experiencing memory loss. The two modular programs address concerns of either a) persons in the early stages or b) persons in the middle to late stages of memory loss. MSML-Online is currently being tested among employees of four Fortune 500 corporations. A tool allowing participants to choose which course best fits their needs was developed, enabling them to choose the appropriate course. Caregivers will be surveyed at baseline, prior to engaging in the program and will be directed to complete the post-assessment after completion of all modules. Results: After three months, forty people had logged on to MSML, 20 for the early stage course and 20 for the middle to late stage course. Of those, 21 persons completed a baseline assessment. Caregivers were predominantly white, married females between 45-54 years of age, providing care to a parent/in-law. Caregiving appeared to exact a toll on productivity: 52.4% (N=11) report they rarely or never produce high quality work, 42.8% (N=9) report they rarely or never focus full attention on their work and 81.0% (N=17) report they rarely or never meet project/client deadlines. Conclusions: Findings suggest that interventions designed specifically for working caregivers are warranted.