A Pilot Trial of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Caregivers After Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinson's Disease

Subthalamic deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease may not ameliorate burden among caregivers. An 8-session, manualized program of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) was delivered to a pilot sample of 10 caregivers (6 females, mean age: 60, age range: 34-79). Primary outcome measures were caregiver burden (Zarit Burden Interview) and caregiver quality of life (Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire–Carer). Secondary outcome measures comprised ratings of depression and anxiety in the caregiver, in addition to relationship quality. Caregiver burden (t = 2.91 P =.017) and caregiver anxiety (t = 2.82 P =.020) symptoms were significantly reduced at completion of the program, and these benefits were maintained 3 months later. Caregiver quality of life had significantly improved by the end of the intervention (t = 3.02 P =.015), but this effect was not sustained after 3 months. The longitudinal influence of participation in the program on caregiver burden was confirmed in a linear, mixed-effects model, χ² (3) = 15.1, P =.0017). The intervention was well received by participants, and qualitative feedback was obtained. These results indicate that caregiver burden is modifiable in this cohort with a short course of CBT, that benefits are maintained after termination of the program, and that psychological treatment is acceptable to participants. Larger, controlled trials are justified.