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Cheng JY, Nurul SBMS, Cheng LJ, He HG. Effectiveness of Technology-Delivered Psychosocial Interventions for Family Caregivers of Patients With Dementia: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression. Int J Ment Health Nurs 2024. [PMID: 39034437 DOI: 10.1111/inm.13390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Family caregivers living with patients with dementia (PwD) face psychological challenges due to care burden. Technology-delivered psychosocial interventions (TPIs) have played a promising role in improving health outcomes among family caregivers living with PwD. This review aims to synthesise evidence of the effectiveness of TPIs on primary (burden and depression) and secondary outcomes (self-efficacy, stress and anxiety) for family caregivers living with PwD. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed to determine effect size. Using Cochran's Q and I2 tests, statistical heterogeneity was evaluated. Sensitivity, subgroup analyses and meta-regression were employed to explain statistical heterogeneity. Twenty-eight trials comprising 4160 family caregivers from eight countries were included. Our meta-analysis revealed that TPIs resulted in slight reduction in depression, probably resulted in a slight reduction in burden and anxiety and slight increase in self-efficacy. Subgroup differences were detected in geographical regions (Western Pacific and Southeast Asia) for burden. While there were no significant subgroup differences in other factors, TPIs with preventive function and mobile applications had a more prominent larger effect size. Meta-regression analysis showed that attrition rate was a significant moderator on depression. Results are limited by the high risk of bias of included trials, which may reduce certainty of evidence. This review suggest TPIs are recommended as an adjunct treatment for alleviating burden and depressive outcomes in healthcare institutions. PROSPERO Registration Number: PROSPERO (CRD42023387962).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Ying Cheng
- Khoo Teck Put Hospital, Yishun Health, National Healthcare Group, Singapore
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Saatirah Bte Mohamad S Nurul
- Khoo Teck Put Hospital, Yishun Health, National Healthcare Group, Singapore
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Ling Jie Cheng
- National University Health System, Singapore
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hong-Gu He
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- National University Health System, Singapore
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Watson J, Hanna K, Talbot C, Hansen M, Cannon J, Caprioli T, Gabbay M, Komuravelli A, Eley R, Tetlow H, Giebel C. A systematic review of digital access to post-diagnostic health and social care services for dementia. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2024; 39:e6119. [PMID: 39004777 DOI: 10.1002/gps.6119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES For many people with dementia and unpaid carers, using technology for care and support has become essential. Rapid proliferation of technology highlights the need to understand digital access to health and social care services for dementia. This mixed-methods systematic review aims to explore digital access to health and social care services for dementia, from the perspective of people with dementia and unpaid carers. METHODS Nine electronic databases were searched in May 2023 for qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-method studies, published in English or German, focused on experiences of using technology-delivered health and social care services for people with dementia and unpaid carers. After removal of duplicates and screening, 44 empirical papers were included. RESULTS From the 44 studies, findings were grouped into five categories, highlighting experiences for people with dementia and unpaid carers: (1) Adapting to technology, (2) Inequalities and variations in outcomes, (3) Impact on caring, (4) Impact on health, and (5) Impact on relationships. Proliferation of technology in care access emphasised the need for quick adaptation to technology and examination of its impact. The impact of such service delivery has evidenced mixed findings. There were improvements in the health and wellbeing of people with dementia and unpaid carers, and benefits for their dyadic relationship. However, using technology for health and social care access is not always possible and is often reliant on unpaid carers for support. Lower tech-literacy, lack of equipment or money to buy equipment and poor internet connection can impact the potential for positive outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Technology can bring great benefits: social inclusion, improved service access and care. However, using technology in service delivery in dementia needs careful thought. Professionals and service providers need to be cognizant of the complex nature of dementia, and the benefits and challenges of hybrid service delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Watson
- Department of Primary Care & Mental Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Kerry Hanna
- School of Health Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Catherine Talbot
- Ageing and Dementia Research Centre, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, UK
| | - Marcus Hansen
- Faculty of Business and Law, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Thais Caprioli
- Department of Primary Care & Mental Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration North West Coast, Liverpool, UK
| | - Mark Gabbay
- Department of Primary Care & Mental Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration North West Coast, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Ruth Eley
- Together in Dementia Everyday (TIDE), Liverpool, UK
| | - Hilary Tetlow
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration North West Coast, Liverpool, UK
- Together in Dementia Everyday (TIDE), Liverpool, UK
- Service User Reference Forum (SURF), Liverpool, UK
| | - Clarissa Giebel
- Department of Primary Care & Mental Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration North West Coast, Liverpool, UK
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Brown P, Burton A, Ayden J, Harrison Dening K, Hoe J, Cooper C. Specialist dementia nursing models and impacts: a systematic review. Curr Opin Psychiatry 2023; 36:376-390. [PMID: 37191653 DOI: 10.1097/yco.0000000000000874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Dementia policy priorities recommend that people who are living with dementia and their family should have access to support and interventions delivered by dementia specialists, including specialist nurses. However, specialist dementia nursing models and role-related competencies are not clearly defined. We systematically review the current evidence regarding specialist dementia nursing models and their impacts. RECENT FINDINGS Thirty-one studies from across three databases, and grey literature were included in the review. One framework defining specific specialist dementia nursing competencies was found. We did not find convincing evidence of the effectiveness of specialist nursing dementia services, relative to standard models of care from the current, limited evidence base, although families living with dementia valued it. No Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT) has compared the impact of specialist nursing on client and carer outcomes relative to less specialist care, although one nonrandomised study reported that specialist dementia nursing reduces emergency and inpatient service use compared with a usual care group. SUMMARY Current models of specialist dementia nursing are numerous and heterogeneous. Further exploration of the specialist nursing skills and the impact of specialist nursing interventions is needed to usefully inform workforce development strategies and clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pat Brown
- Division of Psychiatry, University college London, and Dementia UK
| | | | - Jordan Ayden
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London
| | - Karen Harrison Dening
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester, and Dementia UK
| | - Juanita Hoe
- Geller Institute of Ageing and Memory (GIAM), University of West London
| | - Claudia Cooper
- Centre for Psychiatry and Mental Health, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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Lahiouel A, Kellett J, Isbel S, D'Cunha NM. An Exploratory Study of Nutrition Knowledge and Challenges Faced by Informal Carers of Community-Dwelling People with Dementia: Online Survey and Thematic Analysis. Geriatrics (Basel) 2023; 8:77. [PMID: 37489325 PMCID: PMC10366724 DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics8040077] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Nutrition knowledge is a primary factor influencing food choices and the ability to identify nutritional risk for carers of people with dementia. Acquiring nutrition knowledge helps carers monitor changes in food intake and micronutrient intake, and whether a healthy and balanced diet is being consumed. This study aimed to assess the nutrition knowledge of carers in the Australian community and their experiences with nutrition education. Using a mixed-methods approach, the nutrition knowledge of informal carers was assessed using the revised General Nutrition Knowledge Questionnaire (AUS-R-NKQ), and interviews of informal carers were used to explore the perspectives in a sub-sample. A total of 57 carers (44 females; mean age of 63.0 ± 13.1) completed the survey, and 11 carers participated in follow-up interviews. The total sample scored 22.9 (±4.57) out of 38 on the AUS-R-NKQ, suggesting basic nutrition knowledge. The interviewed carers acknowledged the importance of healthy nutrition but viewed the provision of a healthy diet for a person with dementia as challenging. In both the survey and interviews, carers reported limited use and availability of dementia-specific nutrition resources. Carers were unsatisfied with the advice and number of referrals provided to improve the nutrition of the person with dementia and desired less confusing nutrition education materials adapted to their level of knowledge. The present study highlights the need for informal carers to be supported to acquire adequate nutrition knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdeljalil Lahiouel
- School of Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT 2617, Australia
| | - Jane Kellett
- School of Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT 2617, Australia
- Ageing Research Group, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT 2617, Australia
| | - Stephen Isbel
- School of Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT 2617, Australia
- Ageing Research Group, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT 2617, Australia
| | - Nathan M D'Cunha
- School of Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT 2617, Australia
- Ageing Research Group, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT 2617, Australia
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Choukou MA, Olatoye F, Urbanowski R, Caon M, Monnin C. Digital Health Technology to Support Health Care Professionals and Family Caregivers Caring for Patients With Cognitive Impairment: Scoping Review. JMIR Ment Health 2023; 10:e40330. [PMID: 36630174 PMCID: PMC9878361 DOI: 10.2196/40330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital health technology is a promising way of supporting health care providers and family caregivers as they care for patients with cognitive impairment. OBJECTIVE This scoping review aimed to portray the use of digital health technology to assist health care providers and family caregivers in caring for patients with cognitive impairment who live in the community or in a facility. METHODS We conducted a scoping review of peer-reviewed scientific articles available in MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Scopus, and CINAHL with Full Text, as well as gray literature available in preprint servers, theses depositories, and various national and international dementia organizations' websites. The search yielded 975 articles, of which we included 7 (0.7%) in the review. RESULTS Of the 7 interventions included in the retrieved manuscripts, 2 (29%) were digital calendar reminder systems to support activities of daily living and medication management; 2 (29%) were apps on tablet devices to simulate the presence of family before therapy interventions; 1 (14%) was a social robot used in therapeutic sessions to include elements of musicotherapy, reminiscence, cognitive games, and relaxation; 1 (14%) was a commercially available computer system that provides access to various recreational leisure activities; and 1 (14%) was a web-based self-management support system that helps family caregivers to deal with behavior changes in a relative with dementia. Of the 7 articles, only 1 (14%) reported on the use of a behavior change theory, namely a comprehensive process model of engagement coupled with cognitive stimulation therapy. CONCLUSIONS Literature on the topic is scarce, recent, and heterogeneous. There is a clear need for a theoretical framework to conceptualize and govern the use of behavior change models that incorporate technology for patients with cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed-Amine Choukou
- Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Centre on Aging, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Funminiyi Olatoye
- Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Reg Urbanowski
- Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Maurizio Caon
- School of Management of Fribourg, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland (HES-SO), Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Caroline Monnin
- Neil John Maclean Health Sciences Library, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
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Wen Y, Xing Y, Ding Y, Xu W, Wang X. Challenges of conducting of online educational programs for family caregivers of people with dementia living at home: An integrative review. Int J Nurs Sci 2022; 10:121-128. [PMID: 36860711 PMCID: PMC9969171 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnss.2022.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives This integrative review aimed to understand the challenges of conducting online educational programs for family caregivers of people with dementia by focusing on the components and design of them. Methods Following Whittemore & Knafl's five-step method, seven databases were systematically searched. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was used to evaluate the quality of the studies. Results Of the 25,256 articles identified, 49 studies were included. Limitations in components (including useless or repetitive information, incomplete access to dementia-related information, the impact of components related to culture or ethnicity or gender) and in the format of delivered information (including less interaction, time schedule limitations and preference for traditional forms of delivery of information) make it more challenging to conduct online educational programs. Additionally, implementation constraints such as technical problems, poor computer literacy, and fidelity assessment are challenges that cannot be ignored. Conclusions Insight into the challenges of online educational programs for family caregivers of people with dementia can help guide researchers in constructing the optimal online educational program. Incorporating cultural specificity, considering structured construction strategies, optimizing interaction design, and increasing fidelity assessment may contribute to the conduct of online educational programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Wen
- The School of Nursing, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- The School of Nursing, Pingxiang Health Vocational College, Pingxiang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yurong Xing
- The School of Nursing, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yaping Ding
- The School of Nursing, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Corresponding author.
| | - Wenhui Xu
- The School of Nursing, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wang
- The School of Nursing, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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Wu KC, Su Y, Chu F, Chen AT, Zaslavsky O. Behavioral Change Factors and Retention in Web-Based Interventions for Informal Caregivers of People Living With Dementia: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e38595. [PMID: 35797100 PMCID: PMC9305400 DOI: 10.2196/38595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Web-based interventions aimed at supporting informal caregivers of people living with dementia have the potential to improve caregivers' well-being and psychological health. However, few interventions are widely implemented for this population, and none of the prior reviews have systematically examined the use of behavior change techniques (BCTs), theories, and agents in web-based interventions for informal caregivers of people living with dementia. To better understand this implementation gap, we reviewed the literature to map behavioral factors (BCTs, theories, and agents) deployed in the studies. Furthermore, because there is an emerging consensus that retention could be shaped by participant characteristics and behavioral factors, we explored relationships between these features and retention rates across studies. OBJECTIVE We pursued 3 objectives: to map behavioral factors involved in the web-based interventions for informal caregivers of people living with dementia; to examine the relationship between behavioral change elements and retention in the studies; and to examine the relationship between participant characteristics (gender, age, and spouse or adult children caregiver proportion) and study retention. METHODS We conducted a literature review using the following keywords and their corresponding Medical Subject Headings terms: dementia, caregivers, and web-based intervention. The time limits were January 1998 to March 2022. Using the BCTv1 taxonomy, which specifies active behavioral components in interventions, 2 coders collected, summarized, and analyzed the frequency distributions of BCTs. Similarly, they abstracted and analyzed participant characteristics, behavior change theories, behavior change agents, and retention rates in the studies. RESULTS The average age was 61.5 (SD 7.4) years, and the average proportion of spousal informal caregivers, adult children informal caregivers, and retention rates were 51.2% (SD 24.8%), 44.8% (SD 22%), and 70.4% (SD 17%), respectively. Only 53% (17/32) of the studies used behavior change theories, but 81% (26/32) included behavior change agents. The most common BCTv1 clusters were shaping knowledge and social support. The median number of BCTv1 clusters was 5 (IQR 3). We observed a negative correlation between the proportion of spousal informal caregivers and the retention rate (r=-0.45; P=.02) and between the number of BCTv1 clusters and retention rates (r=-0.47; P=.01). We also found that the proportion of adult children informal caregivers in the study was significantly and positively correlated with the retention rate (r=0.5; P=.03). No other participant characteristics or behavioral factors were associated with retention rates. CONCLUSIONS We found that almost half of the studies were not informed by behavior change theories. In addition, spousal involvement and a higher number of BCTs were each associated with lower retention rates, while the involvement of adult children caregivers in the study was associated with higher retention. In planning future studies, researchers should consider matching participant characteristics with their intended intervention as the alignment might improve their retention rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuan-Ching Wu
- School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Yan Su
- School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Frances Chu
- School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Annie T Chen
- Department of Biomedical Informatics and Medical Education, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Oleg Zaslavsky
- Biobehavioral Nursing and Health Informatics, University of Washington School of Nursing, Seattle, WA, United States
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Ayoub MF, de Souza YLP, de Almeida T, Falcão DVDS. Synchronous psychological interventions by videoconferencing for caregivers of people with dementia: an integrative review. Dement Neuropsychol 2022; 16:1-7. [PMID: 35719257 PMCID: PMC9170262 DOI: 10.1590/1980-5764-dn-2021-0069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has created the need to develop psychological interventions to support people with dementia and their caregivers in the context of social distancing. This study sought to investigate, systematize, and report results of scientific studies published in the past 5 years on synchronous online psychological interventions using videoconferencing for informal caregivers of people with dementia. The PubMed, BIREME, and Web of Science databases were searched using the descriptors “caregiver,” “dementia,” “online,” and “intervention.” Six international studies were included in the review. Results demonstrated, in general, that this modality of intervention was acceptable, feasible, and promoted benefits for the health, quality of life, and well-being of caregivers. A need was identified for further studies investigating synchronous online interventions that include follow-up and a control group to further the evidence on the effectiveness and feasibility of this type of therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Furlan Ayoub
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto SP, Brazil
| | - Yara Luana Pereira de Souza
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto SP, Brazil
| | - Thiago de Almeida
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Artesm Ciências e Humanidades, São Paulo SP, Brazil
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Boyt N, Ho AK, Morris-Bankole H, Sin J. Internet-facilitated interventions for informal caregivers of patients with neurodegenerative disorders: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Digit Health 2022; 8:20552076221129069. [PMID: 36276187 PMCID: PMC9585576 DOI: 10.1177/20552076221129069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This systematic review explored the effectiveness of internet-delivered interventions in improving psychological outcomes of informal caregivers for neurodegenerative-disorder (ND) patients. Methods We searched seven databases for English-language papers published from 1999 to May 2021. Study-eligibility required that interventions used a minimum 50% internet-facilitation, targeting unpaid, adult informal caregivers of community-based ND-patients. We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and pre-post evaluative studies reporting outcomes for at least one-time point post-intervention. Independent quality checks on abstract and full-text screening were completed. Data extraction encompassed interventions' features, approaches, theoretical bases and delivery-modes. The Integrated quality Criteria for the Review Of Multiple Study designs (ICROMS) framework assessed risk of bias. Alongside narrative synthesis, we calculated meta-analyses on post-intervention using outcome measures from at least two RCTs to assess effectiveness. Results Searches yielded 51 eligible studies with 3180 participants. In 48 studies, caregivers supported a dementia-diagnosed individual. Intervention-durations encompassed four weeks to 12 months, with usage-frequency either prescribed or participant-determined. The most frequently-used approach was education, followed by social support. We calculated meta-analyses using data from 16 RCTs. Internet-delivered interventions were superior in improving mastery (g = 1.17 [95% CI; 0.1 to 2.24], p = 0.03) and reducing anxiety (g = -1.29 [95% CI; -1.56 to -1.01], p < 0.01), compared to all controls. Findings were equivocal for caregivers' quality of life, burden and other outcomes. High heterogeneity reflected the multifarious combinations of approaches and delivery-modes, precluding assessment of the most efficacious intervention features. Analyses using burden and self-efficacy outcomes' follow-up data were also non-significant compared to all comparator-types. Although 32 studies met the ICROMS threshold scores, we rated most studies' evidence quality as 'very-low'. Conclusions This review demonstrated some evidence for the efficacy of internet-delivered interventions targeting informal ND-caregivers. However, more rigorous studies, with longer follow-ups across outcomes and involving NDs other than dementia, are imperative to enhance the knowledge-base.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Boyt
- School of Psychology & Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Earley Gate, RG6 6AL, England
| | - Aileen K Ho
- School of Psychology & Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Earley Gate, RG6 6AL, England
| | - Hannah Morris-Bankole
- School of Psychology & Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Earley Gate, RG6 6AL, England
| | - Jacqueline Sin
- School of Health Sciences, University of London, Myddelton Street Building, Myddelton Street, London, EC1R 1UW, England
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Shehadeh A, Hunter S, Jeong S. Self-Management of Dementia by Family Carers: A Scoping Review. Gerontol Geriatr Med 2021; 7:23337214211016694. [PMID: 34095351 PMCID: PMC8142234 DOI: 10.1177/23337214211016694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Family carers increasingly take on the responsibility of self-management of
dementia as the condition progresses. However, research on this topic is scarce.
This scoping review aimed to identify the key characteristics related to
self-management of dementia by carers including its components,
theoretical/conceptual frameworks that underpinned these components and
measurements. A scoping review was conducted in 8 databases and 16 publications
met the inclusion criteria. Twenty-two components were identified and grouped
into two categories: activities and carer characteristics and skills. The
identified theoretical/conceptual frameworks were numerous and varied as were
the measures. There was a little consistency of the key characteristics of
self-management of dementia by carers. The findings assist carers and healthcare
providers to understand the components involved in self-managing dementia which
will guide the development and delivery of self-management support interventions
for carers. Further research is required to validate these findings and to
develop specialized conceptual frameworks and measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anas Shehadeh
- The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Sharyn Hunter
- The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Sarah Jeong
- The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
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Liang OS, Chen Y, Bennett DS, Yang CC. Identifying Self-Management Support Needs for Pregnant Women With Opioid Misuse in Online Health Communities: Mixed Methods Analysis of Web Posts. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e18296. [PMID: 33538695 PMCID: PMC7892281 DOI: 10.2196/18296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The current opioid crisis in the United States impacts broad population groups, including pregnant women. Opioid use during pregnancy can affect the health and wellness of both mothers and their infants. Understanding women’s efforts to self-manage opioid use or misuse in pregnancy is needed to identify intervention points for improving maternal outcomes. Objective This study aims to identify the characteristics of women in an online health community (OHC) with opioid use or misuse during pregnancy and the self-management support needs of these mothers. Methods A total of 200 web posts by pregnant women with opioid use participating in an OHC were double coded. Concepts and their thematic connections were identified through an inductive process until theoretical saturation was reached. Statistical tests were performed to identify patterns. Results The majority of pregnant women (150/200, 75.0%) in the OHC exhibited signs of misuse, and 62.5% (125/200) of the participants were either contemplating or pursuing dosage reduction. Self-managed withdrawal was more common (P<.001) than professional treatment among the population. A total of 5 themes of self-management support needs were identified as women sought information about the potential adverse effects of gestational opioid use, protocols for self-managed withdrawal, pain management safety during pregnancy, hospital policies and legal procedures related to child protection, and strategies for navigating offline support systems. In addition, 58.5% (117/200) of the pregnant women expressed negative emotions, of whom only 10.2% (12/117) sought to address their emotional needs with the help of the OHC. Conclusions OHCs provide vital self-management support for pregnant women with opioid use or misuse. Women pursuing self-managed dosage reduction are prone to misinformation and repeated relapses, which can result in extreme measures to avoid testing positive for drug use at labor. The study findings provide evidence for public policy considerations, including universal screening of substance use for pregnant women, emphasis on treatment rather than legal punishment, and further expansion of the Drug Addiction Treatment Act waiver training program. The improvement of web-based platforms that can organize geo-relevant information, dispense clinically validated withdrawal schedules, and offer structured peer support is envisioned for harm reduction among pregnant women who opt for self-management of opioid misuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ou Stella Liang
- College of Computing and Informatics, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Yunan Chen
- Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - David S Bennett
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Christopher C Yang
- College of Computing and Informatics, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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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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Huis In Het Veld JG, van Asch IFM, Willemse BM, Verkade PJ, Pot AM, Blom MM, Groot Zwaaftink RBM, Francke AL. Process Evaluation of Nurse-Led Online Self-Management Support for Family Caregivers to Deal With Behavior Changes of a Relative With Dementia (Part 1): Mixed Methods Study. J Med Internet Res 2019; 21:e13002. [PMID: 31605517 PMCID: PMC6914225 DOI: 10.2196/13002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coping with behavioral changes is a daily challenge for family caregivers in all phases of dementia, and assistance is needed for it. An online self-management support intervention was therefore developed and conducted involving the following elements: (1) email contact with a specialized dementia nurse, (2) online videos, and (3) e-bulletins containing information about behavior changes and how to manage them. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to understand (1) family caregivers' actual use of various elements of the online self-management support, (2) family caregivers' evaluation and satisfaction with the various elements, and (3) nurses' usage and evaluations of the online support through the tailored email contacts. METHODS A mixed methods design was used in this process evaluation, combining quantitative and qualitative methods including analyses of dementia nurses' registration forms, the number of clicks on online videos and e-bulletins, evaluation questions answered by family caregivers in a survey questionnaire, semistructured interviews with family caregivers and nurses, and analysis of the content of the email contacts. RESULTS The actual use of various elements of the online self-management support by family caregivers varied: 78% (21/27) of family caregivers had an email contact with the specialist nurse, 80% (43/54) of family caregivers clicked on an online video, and 37% (30/81) clicked on an e-bulletin. Family caregivers showed positive evaluations and satisfaction. The tailor-made approach in the personal email contacts in particular was valued by the family caregivers. Nurses' evaluations about providing self-management support online were mixed as it was a relatively new task for them. CONCLUSIONS An important insight is that not all participants made optimum use of the various elements of the intervention. Nurses also said that the email contacts were more often used to express feelings about coping with behavioral changes. More research is needed to investigate the reasons why people accept, adopt, and adhere to online interventions to reduce cases where they are not used and to back them up appropriately with tailored (online) information and advice for their personal situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith G Huis In Het Veld
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Iris F M van Asch
- Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction, Trimbos Institute, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Bernadette M Willemse
- Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction, Trimbos Institute, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | | | | | - Marco M Blom
- Dutch Alzheimer's Society, Amersfoort, Netherlands
| | | | - Anneke L Francke
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research (NIVEL), Utrecht, Netherlands
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