Community Implementation of a Clinician and Caregiver Co‐Led Programme to Promote the Wellbeing of Family Caregivers of Individuals With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities
Published online on April 28, 2026
Abstract
["Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities, Volume 39, Issue 3, May 2026. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nBackground\nThis study evaluated the feasibility of implementing Caring for the Caregiver—Acceptance and Commitment Training (CC‐ACT), an evidence‐based programme to improve the wellbeing of caregivers of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.\n\n\nMethods\nGuided by the RE‐AIM framework, this study utilised participant surveys, focus groups with programme providers and fidelity checklists to evaluate CC‐ACT implementation in 11 Canadian organisations.\n\n\nResults\nAcross participating organisations, 18 programmes were delivered to 195 caregivers. Programme fidelity was generally high, with a mean fidelity score across organisations of 91.8%. Organisations expressed strong alignment between the CC‐ACT model and their values, citing benefits of the co‐facilitation approach. Participants similarly reported high acceptability of the model. However, some concerns were reported related to programme accessibility and sustainability.\n\n\nConclusion\nCC‐ACT is feasible to implement in diverse community settings, though adaptation may be required to ensure accessibility for all caregivers. Centralised infrastructure is needed for long‐term sustainability.\n\n"]