Use of behaviour change techniques in the TACIT trial: TAi ChI for people with demenTia

Abstract

Background: Behaviour change techniques (BCTs) are frequently cognition-based in their approach. However, such techniques may be less effective among people with dementia (PWD) who have cognitive impairment. This presentation will describe the planned evaluation of the use of BCTs in a Tai Chi intervention for PWD. Methods: In a randomised controlled trial, 150 dyads (PWD and their informal carer) will receive usual care or usual care plus Tai Chi for five months. A Tai Chi class will be delivered weekly and after two weeks, at a home visit, the instructor will ask dyads to carry out the exercises at home daily. Dyads will be facilitated to jointly set a goal, action plan, and coping plan. Other BCTs include self-monitoring, feedback on performance and adherence, and social support. Adherence to the intervention will be monitored through weekly calendars. Feedback will be sought qualitatively through joint interviews with a purposive sample of 10 dyads at the end of the intervention and thematically analysed. Expected results: It will be reported whether achievement of goals and adherence to the plans are associated with greater levels of adherence to the intervention, and qualitative comments will indicate if the BCTs influenced adherence. Current stage of work: By the time of the EHPS conference, the trial protocol will have been completed and submitted for approval to an NHS Research Ethics Committee. Discussion: This study will assess whether BCTs completed jointly by PWD and their carer will lead to higher levels of adherence to a physical activity intervention.