This study will examine whether a performing arts class will improve the well-being of primary unpaid caregivers of people with dementia

This study used sample size analysis to determine the adequately sized intervention group and control group, well-defined statistical methodology, and a well-documented intervention that can be easily replicated. The intervention has been developed by Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts leadership with assistance from AMS Planning & Research.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Primary, unpaid caregiver of person with dementia OR
• Person with Dementia.
• Live independently in the community.
• Care recipient has a Functional Assessment Staging Test (FAST) Score of 4-6b.
• Caregiver does not display symptoms of emotional, cognitive, or mental impairment.
• Caregiver must be able to produce adequate saliva sample.
• Caregiver/care recipient can travel to program.
• Caregiver/care recipient agree to participate in all aspects of study intervention and assessments.
• Caregiver is 18 years of age or older.
• Care recipient is 65 years of age or older
• Access to home phone or mobile phone

Exclusion Criteria:

• Unable to understand either spoken and/or written English.
• Caregiver is a paid employee of care recipient's legally appointed representative