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Bonds Johnson K, Higgins M, Epps F, Brewster GS, Alexander K, Hepburn K. Tele-Savvy Outcomes of Non-Hispanic Black American and White Caregivers. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2024; 64:gnad044. [PMID: 37067896 PMCID: PMC10733122 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnad044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Tele-Savvy is a synchronous/asynchronous psychoeducation program for caregivers of community-dwelling persons living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) designed to increase caregivers' competence and confidence (mastery) in caregiving. Its overall efficacy was tested in a randomized controlled trial. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS This secondary data analysis examined the caregiver mastery and psychological health (i.e., perceived stress, depressive symptoms, and burden) outcome of 153 non-Hispanic Black American and White caregivers (31 non-Hispanic Black American and 122 White caregivers) from baseline to 6 months postintervention. Given the difference in the sample sizes of Black and White caregivers, a descriptive post hoc subgroup analysis was conducted of 21 non-Hispanic Black American and 20 White adult children and grandchildren caregivers. RESULTS In the overall sample, Black American caregivers demonstrated higher levels of mastery and lower levels of distress than White caregivers at baseline and across all time points. Over time, White caregivers, but not Black American caregivers, experienced significantly improved levels of mastery and significantly lowered levels of depression. Within the subgroup analysis, except for a moderate effect size in the management of situation scores over time among Black American adult children caregivers, similar results were obtained. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS The findings highlight the strengths and shortcomings of the Tele-Savvy program in improving caregiver mastery and reducing negative psychological health outcomes. Intentionally tailoring the Tele-Savvy program to certain racial and caregiving groups may hold promise in meeting the needs of more ADRD caregivers. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT03033875.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Melinda Higgins
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Fayron Epps
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Glenna S Brewster
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Karah Alexander
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kenneth Hepburn
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Brewster GS, Pierpaoli Parker C, Epps F, Bonds Johnson K, Yeager KA. Sleep Profiles of Caregivers for Persons Living with Dementia: A Qualitative Study. West J Nurs Res 2023; 45:688-695. [PMID: 37161397 DOI: 10.1177/01939459231175242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Sleep disturbance is prevalent among caregivers of people living with dementia. However, gaps exist about caregivers' sleep patterns before and during their caregiving trajectory. This exploratory secondary analysis using a qualitative descriptive approach aimed to (1) identify and describe current caregivers' patterns of change in sleep before and during caregiving, and (2) understand caregivers' perceptions of their current sleep compared to their pre-caregiving sleep. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 19 caregivers taking part in a larger randomized controlled trial. Participants were female (n = 11), white (n = 13) and on average 63 years of age. Interview questions focused on caregivers' sleep patterns. The interviews were audio-recorded using a videoconferencing platform and ranged from 20 to 45 minutes. We conducted thematic analysis of the interview transcripts. Three distinct caregiver-sleep profiles emerged from the qualitative data: changed and dissatisfied, changed and satisfied, and unchanged and dissatisfied. Caregivers whose sleep was categorized as changed reported a difference when comparing their current sleep pattern to their pre-caregiving sleep pattern. This was usually a change from good to poor sleep. Caregivers whose sleep was unchanged had poor sleep pre-caregiving and continued to have poor sleep during caregiving. Caregivers also reported being satisfied or dissatisfied with their current sleep pattern, defined in terms of distress and impairment. These three subtypes highlight the heterogeneity of caregivers' sleep experiences and debut a useful clinical framework with which to identify, categorize, and target caregivers at risk for sleep disturbance, many who may be ready to engage in behaviors to improve their sleep. Knowing caregivers' sleep profiles will enable health care providers and researchers to determine caregivers' needs and readiness for interventions then work collaboratively with them to improve their sleep problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenna S Brewster
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Christina Pierpaoli Parker
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Fayron Epps
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Katherine A Yeager
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Shade M, Kovaleva M, Harp K, Martin-Hammond A. Older Adults' Pain Outcomes After mHealth Interventions: Scoping Review. JMIR Aging 2023; 6:e46976. [PMID: 37256667 PMCID: PMC10267779 DOI: 10.2196/46976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pain is prevalent and poorly managed in older adults. Although pain self-management strategies are helpful, adoption and access are limited; thus, technology provides an opportunity for intervention delivery. Mobile health (mHealth) is feasible to use in older adults; however, we have yet to understand the effect of mHealth pain self-management interventions on pain outcomes in older adults. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this scoping review is to examine the characteristics of mHealth interventions and their efficacy on pain outcomes in older adults with musculoskeletal pain. METHODS With the assistance of a medical librarian, keywords and subject headings were generated, including but not limited to mobile health application, mHealth, digital, pain, pain management, and older. A search was conducted for papers in journal databases, including PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus, and IEEE Xplore, between 2000 and 2022. Papers were screened according to predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, and reference lists were reviewed for additional paper inclusion. Three authors appraised the methodology of papers independently, then collaboratively to synthesize the evidence. RESULTS Six publications were included in the scoping review. The design and methodology ranged widely from pilot studies to a comparative effectiveness trial. Older participants in the studies reported a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. Delivery of the mHealth pain self-management interventions incorporated mobile devices, such as a smartphone or tablet. Most mHealth-delivered interventions were multicomponent and incorporated elements of in-person and telephone access to an interventionist. The findings suggested mHealth interventions may reduce pain intensity; however, pain interference and other pain-related conditions did not have a statistically significant reduction. CONCLUSIONS Research that has explored mHealth for pain self-management is beginning to move beyond feasibility. The few experimental studies conducted in older adults are heterogeneous, and the interventions are mostly multicomponent. It is premature to conclude the interventions' significant effect on pain or pain-related symptoms. As technology continues to integrate into health care, more experimental research is warranted to examine the efficacy of mHealth interventions on a variety of pain outcomes in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcia Shade
- College of Nursing, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Mariya Kovaleva
- College of Nursing, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Kimberly Harp
- College of Nursing, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Aqueasha Martin-Hammond
- Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering, Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis, IN, United States
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Kovaleva MA, Kleinpell R, Dietrich MS, Jones AC, Boon JT, Duggan MC, Dennis BM, Lauderdale J, Maxwell CA. Caregivers’ experience with Tele-Savvy Caregiver Program post-hospitalization. Geriatr Nurs 2023; 51:156-166. [PMID: 36990041 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2023.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Despite the frequent hospitalizations and readmissions of persons living with dementia (PLWD), no telehealth transitional care interventions focus on PLWDs' unpaid caregivers. Tele-Savvy Caregiver Program is a 43-day evidence-based online psychoeducational intervention for PLWDs' caregivers. The aim of this formative evaluation was to explore caregivers' acceptability of and experience with their participation in Tele-Savvy after their PLWDs' hospital discharge. Additionally, we gathered caregivers' feedback on the recommended features of a transitional care intervention, suitable for caregivers' schedule and needs post-discharge. Fifteen caregivers completed the interviews. Data were analyzed via conventional content analysis. Four categories were identified: (1) Tele-Savvy improved participants' understanding of dementia and caregiving; (2) hospitalization started a "new level of normal"; (3) PLWDs' health concerns; and (4) transitional care intervention development. Participation in Tele-Savvy was acceptable for most caregivers. Participants' feedback provides content and structural guidance for the development of a new transitional care intervention for PLWDs' caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariya A Kovaleva
- College of Nursing - Omaha Division, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985330 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5330, USA.
| | - Ruth Kleinpell
- Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, 461 21st Ave S, Nashville, TN 37240, USA
| | - Mary S Dietrich
- Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, 461 21st Ave S, Nashville, TN 37240, USA; Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 1161 21st Ave S, #D3300, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Abigail C Jones
- Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, 461 21st Ave S, Nashville, TN 37240, USA; Yale University School of Nursing, 400 West Campus Drive, Orange, CT 06477, USA
| | - Jeffrey T Boon
- Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, 461 21st Ave S, Nashville, TN 37240, USA; Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1211 Medical Center Dr, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Maria C Duggan
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 1161 21st Ave S, #D3300, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, 1310 24th Ave South, Nashville, TN 37212-2637, USA
| | - Bradley M Dennis
- Division of Acute Care Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1211 Medical Center Dr, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Jana Lauderdale
- Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, 461 21st Ave S, Nashville, TN 37240, USA
| | - Cathy A Maxwell
- Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, 461 21st Ave S, Nashville, TN 37240, USA
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Kovaleva M, Nocera JR, Hepburn K, Higgins M, Nash R, Epps F, Brewster G, Bilsborough E, Blumling AA, Griffiths PC. Attention control in a trial of an online psychoeducational intervention for caregivers. Res Nurs Health 2022; 45:337-349. [DOI: 10.1002/nur.22208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mariya Kovaleva
- Niedfelt Nursing Research Center University of Nebraska (UNMC) College of Nursing ‐ Omaha Division, 985330 Nebraska Medical Center Omaha Nebraska USA
| | - Joe R. Nocera
- Atlanta VA Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation Decatur Georgia USA
- Department of Neurology Emory University School of Medicine, Emory University Atlanta Georgia USA
- Department of Physical Rehabilitation Emory University School of Medicine, Emory University Atlanta Georgia USA
| | - Kenneth Hepburn
- Department of Medicine Emory University School of Medicine Atlanta Georgia USA
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing Emory University Atlanta Georgia USA
| | - Melinda Higgins
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing Emory University Atlanta Georgia USA
| | - Rachel Nash
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing Emory University Atlanta Georgia USA
| | - Fayron Epps
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing Emory University Atlanta Georgia USA
| | - Glenna Brewster
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing Emory University Atlanta Georgia USA
| | | | - Amy A. Blumling
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing Emory University Atlanta Georgia USA
- Division of Human Genetics Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Cincinnati Ohio USA
| | - Patricia C. Griffiths
- Department of Medicine Emory University School of Medicine Atlanta Georgia USA
- Georgia Institute of Technology Center for Assistive Technology Atlanta Georgia USA
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Epps F, Brewster G, Phillips JS, Nash R, Shah RC, Hepburn K. Using a Warm Hand-Off Approach to Enroll African American Caregivers in a Multi-Site Clinical Trial: The Handshake Protocol. J Appl Gerontol 2022; 41:142-147. [PMID: 33567942 PMCID: PMC8353002 DOI: 10.1177/0733464821992920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
"Testing Tele-Savvy" was a three-arm randomized controlled trial that recruited participants from four National Institute on Aging (NIA)-funded Alzheimer's Disease Centers with Emory University serving as the coordinating center. The enrollment process involved each center providing a list of eligible caregivers to the coordinating center to consent. Initially, the site proposed to recruit primarily African American caregivers generated a significant amount of referrals to the coordinating center, but a gap occurred in translating them into enrolled participants. To increase the enrollment rate, a "Handshake Protocol" was established, which included a warm handoff approach. During preset phone calls each week, the research site coordinator introduced potential participants to a culturally congruent co-investigator from the coordinating center who then completed the consent process. Within the first month of implementation, the team was 97% effective in meeting its goals. This protocol is an example of a successful, innovative approach to enrolling minority participants in multi-site clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Judy S Phillips
- Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center, Rush University University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Raj C Shah
- Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center, Rush University University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
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Effects of e-Health Training and Social Support Interventions for Informal Caregivers of People with Dementia-A Narrative Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18157728. [PMID: 34360020 PMCID: PMC8345641 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18157728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Along with the burden commonly experienced by informal caregivers (ICs) of people with dementia (PwD), associated with the progressive decline that accompanies dementia, the lockdown due to the public health crisis has had a great negative impact on the emotional wellbeing, physical health, and social relationships of ICs. Support interventions through telemedicine represent an opportunity for ICs to learn the skills required for the care and maintenance of social networks. In this work, a narrative review of the effects of e-health training and social support interventions was carried out. A literature search was conducted using the ProQuest, Ovid, and Scopus databases. Information regarding social support (SS), psychological interventions, and training for the management of medications and behavioral changes was extracted. One hundred and nine studies were included in this review. Forums and training platforms were the main tools for ICs. The most effective platforms to improve SS include the participation of both ICs and health professionals. However, no significant improvements in objective caring skills were identified. Platforms developed specifically for ICs should be based in tools that ICs are familiar with, because many ICs have not yet incorporated Information and Communication Technologies in many activities of their daily lives. Education in the digitalization to ICs of PwD should be one of the priority objectives in telehealth interventions.
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Hepburn K, Nocera J, Higgins M, Epps F, Brewster GS, Lindauer A, Morhardt D, Shah R, Bonds K, Nash R, Griffiths PC. Results of a Randomized Trial Testing the Efficacy of Tele-Savvy, an Online Synchronous/Asynchronous Psychoeducation Program for Family Caregivers of Persons Living with Dementia. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2021; 62:616-628. [PMID: 33640979 PMCID: PMC7989248 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnab029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Family caregivers will grow in number as dementia prevalence increases, underscoring the continued importance of equipping these individuals for their new roles and ameliorating the adverse effects of caregiving. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS A three-armed, waitlist, randomized trial design tested Tele-Savvy, an online adaptation of a successful in-person psychoeducation program, the Savvy Caregiver. Tele-Savvy is delivered over 43 days to groups of 6-8 caregivers in 7 weekly synchronous sessions accompanied by 36 brief asynchronous video lessons. We enrolled 23 cohorts of 15 eligible caregivers (N = 261), randomized 2:2:1 to active, attention control, and usual care arms. We assessed caregiver psychological well-being and caregiving mastery at baseline and 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. Multilevel linear models assessed outcomes over the 3 time points examined. The trial was slightly truncated, with Data and Safety Monitoring Board approval, because of the apparent confounding psychological effects of coronavirus disease 2019 restrictions. RESULTS Study findings indicate statistically and clinically significant benefits to Tele-Savvy arm caregivers (with moderate to large effect sizes) in the areas of depression, perceived stress, reaction to care recipients' behaviors, and enhancement of caregiver mastery. Expected benefits for caregiver burden and anxiety were not found. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Findings attest to program efficacy and the viability of employing distance means to improve family caregivers' emotional well-being and sense of mastery in the caregiving role over a 6-month period. Next steps entail finding alternate ways to deliver the program to those with connectivity and/or time constraint problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Hepburn
- Address correspondence to: Kenneth Hepburn, PhD, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA. E-mail:
| | - Joe Nocera
- Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Melinda Higgins
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Fayron Epps
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Glenna S Brewster
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Allison Lindauer
- Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, USA
| | - Darby Morhardt
- Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Raj Shah
- Department of Family Medicine and Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Kalisha Bonds
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Rachel Nash
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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González-Fraile E, Ballesteros J, Rueda JR, Santos-Zorrozúa B, Solà I, McCleery J. Remotely delivered information, training and support for informal caregivers of people with dementia. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2021; 1:CD006440. [PMID: 33417236 PMCID: PMC8094510 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd006440.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many people with dementia are cared for at home by unpaid informal caregivers, usually family members. Caregivers may experience a range of physical, emotional, financial and social harms, which are often described collectively as caregiver burden. The degree of burden experienced is associated with characteristics of the caregiver, such as gender, and characteristics of the person with dementia, such as dementia stage, and the presence of behavioural problems or neuropsychiatric disturbances. It is a strong predictor of admission to residential care for people with dementia. Psychoeducational interventions might prevent or reduce caregiver burden. Overall, they are intended to improve caregivers' knowledge about the disease and its care; to increase caregivers' sense of competence and their ability to cope with difficult situations; to relieve feelings of isolation and allow caregivers to attend to their own emotional and physical needs. These interventions are heterogeneous, varying in their theoretical framework, components, and delivery formats. Interventions that are delivered remotely, using printed materials, telephone or video technologies, may be particularly suitable for caregivers who have difficulty accessing face-to-face services because of their own health problems, poor access to transport, or absence of substitute care. During the COVID-19 pandemic, containment measures in many countries required people to be isolated in their homes, including people with dementia and their family carers. In such circumstances, there is no alternative to remote delivery of interventions. OBJECTIVES To assess the efficacy and acceptability of remotely delivered interventions aiming to reduce burden and improve mood and quality of life of informal caregivers of people with dementia. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Specialised Register of the Cochrane Dementia and Cognitive Improvement Group, MEDLINE, Embase and four other databases, as well as two international trials registries, on 10 April 2020. We also examined the bibliographies of relevant review papers and published trials. SELECTION CRITERIA We included only randomised controlled trials that assessed the remote delivery of structured interventions for informal caregivers who were providing care for people with dementia living at home. Caregivers had to be unpaid adults (relatives or members of the person's community). The interventions could be delivered using printed materials, the telephone, the Internet or a mixture of these, but could not involve any face-to-face contact with professionals. We categorised intervention components as information, training or support. Information interventions included two key elements: (i) they provided standardised information, and (ii) the caregiver played a passive role. Support interventions promoted interaction with other people (professionals or peers). Training interventions trained caregivers in practical skills to manage care. We excluded interventions that were primarily individual psychotherapy. Our primary outcomes were caregiver burden, mood, health-related quality of life and dropout for any reason. Secondary outcomes were caregiver knowledge and skills, use of health and social care resources, admission of the person with dementia to institutional care, and quality of life of the person with dementia. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Study selection, data extraction and assessment of the risk of bias in included studies were done independently by two review authors. We used the Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) to describe the interventions. We conducted meta-analyses using a random-effects model to derive estimates of effect size. We used GRADE methods to describe our degree of certainty about effect estimates. MAIN RESULTS We included 26 studies in this review (2367 participants). We compared (1) interventions involving training, support or both, with or without information (experimental interventions) with usual treatment, waiting list or attention control (12 studies, 944 participants); and (2) the same experimental interventions with provision of information alone (14 studies, 1423 participants). We downgraded evidence for study limitations and, for some outcomes, for inconsistency between studies. There was a frequent risk of bias from self-rating of subjective outcomes by participants who were not blind to the intervention. Randomisation methods were not always well-reported and there was potential for attrition bias in some studies. Therefore, all evidence was of moderate or low certainty. In the comparison of experimental interventions with usual treatment, waiting list or attention control, we found that the experimental interventions probably have little or no effect on caregiver burden (nine studies, 597 participants; standardised mean difference (SMD) -0.06, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.35 to 0.23); depressive symptoms (eight studies, 638 participants; SMD -0.05, 95% CI -0.22 to 0.12); or health-related quality of life (two studies, 311 participants; SMD 0.10, 95% CI -0.13 to 0.32). The experimental interventions probably result in little or no difference in dropout for any reason (eight studies, 661 participants; risk ratio (RR) 1.15, 95% CI 0.87 to 1.53). In the comparison of experimental interventions with a control condition of information alone, we found that experimental interventions may result in a slight reduction in caregiver burden (nine studies, 650 participants; SMD -0.24, 95% CI -0.51 to 0.04); probably result in a slight improvement in depressive symptoms (11 studies, 1100 participants; SMD -0.25, 95% CI -0.43 to -0.06); may result in little or no difference in caregiver health-related quality of life (two studies, 257 participants; SMD -0.03, 95% CI -0.28 to 0.21); and probably result in an increase in dropouts for any reason (12 studies, 1266 participants; RR 1.51, 95% CI 1.04 to 2.20). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Remotely delivered interventions including support, training or both, with or without information, may slightly reduce caregiver burden and improve caregiver depressive symptoms when compared with provision of information alone, but not when compared with usual treatment, waiting list or attention control. They seem to make little or no difference to health-related quality of life. Caregivers receiving training or support were more likely than those receiving information alone to drop out of the studies, which might limit applicability. The efficacy of these interventions may depend on the nature and availability of usual services in the study settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Javier Ballesteros
- Department of Neuroscience, University of the Basque Country, CIBER Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Leioa, Spain
| | - José-Ramón Rueda
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of the Basque Country, Leioa, Spain
| | - Borja Santos-Zorrozúa
- Scientific coordination Unit, Biocruces Health Research Institute, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Ivan Solà
- Iberoamerican Cochrane Centre, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
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Virtual Support Groups for Informal Caregivers of Individuals With Dementia: A Scoping Review. Alzheimer Dis Assoc Disord 2020; 33:362-369. [PMID: 31567144 DOI: 10.1097/wad.0000000000000349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this scoping systematic review was to inform virtual support group development for informal caregivers of dementia by identifying published approaches, outcomes, barriers, and facilitators. METHODS A scoping systematic review was performed using 5 search engines. Studies were included if they utilized virtual support groups for informal caregivers of persons with dementia. Study details, support group characteristics, outcomes, barriers, facilitators, and recommended approaches were extracted and summarized. RESULTS Of 1052 identified articles, 87 were retrieved; 62 were excluded largely because they described other virtual interventions. Groups typically used teleconferences or internet-based videoconferences, included 4 to 6 participants, lasted 60 minutes, and occurred weekly or monthly. Moderators were professionals; moderator training was common. Content focused on support, education, or both. Covered topics included dementia knowledge, caregiving skills, coping, and resources. Costs related to technology, programming, and staffing. Although most studies identified no statistical differences, caregivers described many participation benefits. Common barriers were technology and access. Facilitators included training, technology support, small groups, and skilled leaders. CONCLUSIONS Clinics desiring to start virtual support groups should consider videoconferencing or telephone approaches with pretraining, technology support, and professional moderators. Clinics need adequate resources, particularly for technology, and identification of locally relevant goals and approach.
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Gately ME, Trudeau SA, Moo LR. In-Home Video Telehealth for Dementia Management: Implications for Rehabilitation. CURRENT GERIATRICS REPORTS 2019; 8:239-249. [PMID: 32015957 PMCID: PMC6996201 DOI: 10.1007/s13670-019-00297-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The progressive nature of dementia requires ongoing care delivered by multidisciplinary teams, including rehabilitation professionals, that is individualized to patient and caregiver needs at various points on the disease trajectory. Video telehealth is a rapidly expanding model of care with the potential to expand dementia best practices by increasing the reach of dementia providers to flexible locations, including patients' homes. We review recent evidence for in-home video telehealth for patients with dementia and their caregivers with emphasis on implications for rehabilitation professionals. RECENT FINDINGS Eleven studies were identified that involved video visits into the home targeting patients with dementia and/or their family caregivers. The majority describe protocolized interventions targeting caregivers in a group format over a finite, pre-determined period. For most, the discipline of the interventionist was unclear, though two studies included rehabilitation interventions. While descriptions of utilized technology were often lacking, many reported that devices were issued to participants when needed, and that technical support was provided by study teams. Positive caregiver outcomes were noted but evidence for patient-level outcomes and cost data are mostly lacking. SUMMARY More research is needed to demonstrate implementation of dementia best care practices through in-home video telehealth. Though interventions delivered using in-home video telehealth appear to be effective at addressing caregivers' psychosocial concerns, the impact on patients and the implications for rehabilitation remain unclear. Larger, more systematic inquiries comparing in-home video telehealth to traditional visit formats are needed to better define best practices.
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Biello S, Tomolo A, Abraham C, Escoffery C, Lang D, Sawyer C, Thompson N. A Qualitative Evaluation of Caregiver Support Services Offered at the Atlanta Veterans Affairs Health Care System. Prev Chronic Dis 2019; 16:E24. [PMID: 30817266 PMCID: PMC6395079 DOI: 10.5888/pcd16.180156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides health care to approximately 300,000 patients with dementia. Recognizing the critical role caregivers play in veterans’ health, the Cognitive Disorders Specialty Care Education Center of Excellence (COE) at the Atlanta VA Health Care System implemented a suite of caregiver support services, including formal programs and resource linkages. We evaluated the effectiveness of these services and identified caregiver-perceived gaps in them. Methods We conducted 11 semistructured interviews from November 2016 through February 2017 with caregivers of veterans seen in the COE who had participated in support services. After coding transcripts, we established a codebook of 9 major themes and conducted a thematic analysis of all transcripts. Results Caregivers spoke positively of COE caregiver services that offered information on dementia, social support, an emphasis on caregiver well-being and self-efficacy, and methods for behavioral change. Gaps identified included the need for additional dementia information and practical support in such matters as advanced directives and eligibility for VA benefits. Conclusion Our findings will inform future improvements to COE caregiver support services, such as an expansion of COE’s caregiver educational content and capacity building of existing components such as resource referrals. These results also highlight opportunities for COE to interface with internal and external organizations to enhance existing caregiver services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Biello
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30322.
| | - Anne Tomolo
- Atlanta Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Atlanta, Georgia.,Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Corrine Abraham
- Atlanta Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Atlanta, Georgia.,Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Cam Escoffery
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Delia Lang
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Charlotte Sawyer
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Nancy Thompson
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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Bangerter LR, Griffin J, Harden K, Rutten LJ. Health Information-Seeking Behaviors of Family Caregivers: Analysis of the Health Information National Trends Survey. JMIR Aging 2019; 2:e11237. [PMID: 31518309 PMCID: PMC6714999 DOI: 10.2196/11237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The growing population of aging adults relies on informal caregivers to help meet their health care needs, get help with decision making, and gather health information. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to examine health information-seeking behaviors among caregivers and to identify caregiver characteristics that contribute to difficulty in seeking health information. METHODS Data from the Health Information National Trends Survey 5, Cycle 1 (N=3181) were used to compare health information seeking of caregivers (n=391) with noncaregivers (n=2790). RESULTS Caregivers sought health information for themselves and others using computers, smartphones, or other electronic means more frequently than noncaregivers. Caregivers born outside of the United States reported greater difficulty seeking health information (beta=.42; P=.02). Nonwhite caregivers (beta =-.33; P=.03), those with less education (beta =-.35; P=.02), those with private insurance (beta =-.37; P=.01), and those without a regular health care provider (beta =-.35; P=.01) had less confidence seeking health information. Caregivers with higher income had more confidence (beta =.12; P≤.001) seeking health information. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the prevalence of electronic means to find health information among caregivers. Notable differences in difficulty and confidence in health information seeking exist between caregivers, indicating the need for more attention to the socioeconomic status and caregivers born outside of the United States. Findings can guide efforts to optimize caregivers' health information-seeking experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren R Bangerter
- Robert D and Patricia E Kern Center for the Science of Healthcare Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Joan Griffin
- Robert D and Patricia E Kern Center for the Science of Healthcare Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Kristin Harden
- Robert D and Patricia E Kern Center for the Science of Healthcare Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Lila J Rutten
- Robert D and Patricia E Kern Center for the Science of Healthcare Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
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