Non-pharmaceutical interventions for persons living with young-onset dementia and their informal caregivers: A systematic review with meta-analysis

Abstract

Background

Young-onset dementia (YOD) causes major life disruptions and emotional strain for both persons living with YOD and their informal caregivers. Non-pharmaceutical interventions may help to improve quality of life and reduce stress.

Objective

We aimed at investigating the effects of non-pharmaceutical interventions for persons living with YOD and their informal caregivers and to explore the intervention characteristics.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review including randomized and non-randomized controlled trials (PROSPERO: CRD42025645744). We searched major bibliographic databases and performed citation and web searches. Two reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts, and full texts. For data extraction, we used Elicit, an artificial intelligent research assistant; with extractions confirmed by a human reviewer. The methodological quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). We performed a narrative synthesis based on a harvest plot. When appropriate, we performed meta-analyses.

Results

We found 9 trials assessing interventions on education and information or skills building interventions that were published between 1990 and 2024 (median sample size: 58). Meta-analyses revealed no statistically significant impact on behavioral outcomes, activities of daily living, and quality of life of persons living with YOD and no statistically significant impact on burden, depression and anxiety, and quality of life of informal caregivers.

Conclusions

Evidence on the effectiveness of non-pharmaceutical interventions for persons living with YOD and their informal caregivers is limited and inconsistent. Further, larger, and multiple randomized controlled trials assessing the impact of non-pharmaceutical interventions with comparable outcomes, standardized measurements, and longer follow-ups are needed.