Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, Vol 56(2), Apr 2025, 112-118; doi:10.1037/pro0000612
This exploratory study investigated the application of human-centered design thinking (DT) to address the unmet needs of individuals diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s and their partners or adult children caregivers (considered as dyads). Over 6 months, researchers collaborated with five dyads to understand their unique experiences and develop personalized interventions targeting memory, medication management, and stress reduction. Results showed that individuals diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s experienced reduced anxiety (Rating Anxiety in Dementia scores decreased from 18.4 to 12.6), while their caregivers reported decreased burden (Zarit Burden Interview scores decreased from 56.4 to 48.2). Both individuals diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s and their caregivers reported increased self-efficacy and a sense of partnership in care. The findings highlight the potential of DT to improve quality of life for those affected by early-stage Alzheimer’s, with implications for the broader field of mental health care. Further research is needed to establish the generalizability and long-term efficacy of DT interventions across various mental health conditions. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)
