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Turnbull N, Sriruecha C, Kongmant R, Nghiep LK, Tudpor K. A Mobile Application for Enhancing Caregiver Support and Resource Management for Long-Term Dependent Individuals in Rural Areas. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1473. [PMID: 39120176 PMCID: PMC11311701 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12151473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2024] [Revised: 07/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The "SmartCaregivers" 1.0 mobile application is a beacon of hope for caregivers (CG) in rural areas, often facing limited access to facilities and support. This study, conducted from February to August 2021, aimed to comprehensively analyze the need for developing a database system and a mobile application tailored to enhance caregiver support and resource management for long-term dependent individuals in the rural areas of Maha Sarakham province, Thailand. The research followed a rigorous research and development (R & D) approach, specifically the ADDIE model (analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation). Data were collected from 402 caregivers and 10 key informants through surveys and interviews, as well as from 402 caregivers during the implementation and evaluation phases. The application's impact was assessed using a quasi-experimental design with a one-group pre-post-test, and its acceptance was evaluated through the technology acceptance model (TAM). The application significantly improved caregivers' knowledge scores, with a mean increase from 10.49 ± 2.53 to 12.18 ± 2.76 post-intervention. High scores for perceived usefulness (4.36 ± 0.62) and ease of use (4.31 ± 0.59) reassure the audience about the application's effectiveness in providing rapid access to health information, aiding decision-making, and improving care coordination. The system quality was also highly rated, with users appreciating the variety of functions and structural design. This potential for transformation and improvement instills hope and optimism for the future of caregiving in rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niruwan Turnbull
- Faculty of Public Health and Public Health and Environmental Policy in Southeast Asia Research Cluster (PHEP-SEA), Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand;
| | - Chanaphol Sriruecha
- Faculty of Science and Technology, College of Asian Scholars, Khon Kaen 40000, Thailand;
| | - Ruchakron Kongmant
- Public Health and Environmental Policy in Southeast Asia Research Cluster (PHEP-SEA), Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand;
| | - Le Ke Nghiep
- Vinh Long Department of Health, Vinh Long 85000, Vietnam;
| | - Kukiat Tudpor
- Faculty of Public Health and Public Health and Environmental Policy in Southeast Asia Research Cluster (PHEP-SEA), Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand;
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Albright L, Ko W, Buvanesh M, Haraldsson H, Polubriaginof F, Kuperman GJ, Levy M, Sterling MR, Dell N, Estrin D. Opportunities and Challenges for Augmented Reality in Family Caregiving: Qualitative Video Elicitation Study. JMIR Form Res 2024; 8:e56916. [PMID: 38814705 PMCID: PMC11176885 DOI: 10.2196/56916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although family caregivers play a critical role in care delivery, research has shown that they face significant physical, emotional, and informational challenges. One promising avenue to address some of caregivers' unmet needs is via the design of digital technologies that support caregivers' complex portfolio of responsibilities. Augmented reality (AR) applications, specifically, offer new affordances to aid caregivers as they perform care tasks in the home. OBJECTIVE This study explored how AR might assist family caregivers with the delivery of home-based cancer care. The specific objectives were to shed light on challenges caregivers face where AR might help, investigate opportunities for AR to support caregivers, and understand the risks of AR exacerbating caregiver burdens. METHODS We conducted a qualitative video elicitation study with clinicians and caregivers. We created 3 video elicitations that offer ways in which AR might support caregivers as they perform often high-stakes, unfamiliar, and anxiety-inducing tasks in postsurgical cancer care: wound care, drain care, and rehabilitative exercise. The elicitations show functional AR applications built using Unity Technologies software and Microsoft Hololens2. Using elicitations enabled us to avoid rediscovering known usability issues with current AR technologies, allowing us to focus on high-level, substantive feedback on potential future roles for AR in caregiving. Moreover, it enabled nonintrusive exploration of the inherently sensitive in-home cancer care context. RESULTS We recruited 22 participants for our study: 15 clinicians (eg, oncologists and nurses) and 7 family caregivers. Our findings shed light on clinicians' and caregivers' perceptions of current information and communication challenges caregivers face as they perform important physical care tasks as part of cancer treatment plans. Most significant was the need to provide better and ongoing support for execution of caregiving tasks in situ, when and where the tasks need to be performed. Such support needs to be tailored to the specific needs of the patient, to the stress-impaired capacities of the caregiver, and to the time-constrained communication availability of clinicians. We uncover opportunities for AR technologies to potentially increase caregiver confidence and reduce anxiety by supporting the capture and review of images and videos and by improving communication with clinicians. However, our findings also suggest ways in which, if not deployed carefully, AR technologies might exacerbate caregivers' already significant burdens. CONCLUSIONS These findings can inform both the design of future AR devices, software, and applications and the design of caregiver support interventions based on already available technology and processes. Our study suggests that AR technologies and the affordances they provide (eg, tailored support, enhanced monitoring and task accuracy, and improved communications) should be considered as a part of an integrated care journey involving multiple stakeholders, changing information needs, and different communication channels that blend in-person and internet-based synchronous and asynchronous care, illness, and recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam Albright
- Department of Information Science, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Woojin Ko
- Department of Computer Science, Cornell Tech, New York, NY, United States
| | - Meyhaa Buvanesh
- Department of Information Science, Jacobs Technion-Cornell Institute, Cornell Tech, New York, NY, United States
| | | | - Fernanda Polubriaginof
- Digital Informatics and Technology Solutions (DigITS), Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Gilad J Kuperman
- Digital Informatics and Technology Solutions (DigITS), Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Michelle Levy
- Digital Informatics and Technology Solutions (DigITS), Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Madeline R Sterling
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Nicola Dell
- Department of Information Science, Jacobs Technion-Cornell Institute, Cornell Tech, New York, NY, United States
| | - Deborah Estrin
- Department of Computer Science, Cornell Tech, New York, NY, United States
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Kelley MM, Powell T, Camara D, Shah N, Norton JM, Deitelzweig C, Vaidy N, Hsiao CJ, Wang J, Bierman AS. Mobile Health Apps, Family Caregivers, and Care Planning: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2024; 26:e46108. [PMID: 38781588 PMCID: PMC11157180 DOI: 10.2196/46108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People living with multiple chronic conditions (MCCs) face substantial challenges in planning and coordinating increasingly complex care. Family caregivers provide important assistance for people with MCCs but lack sufficient support. Caregiver apps have the potential to help by enhancing care coordination and planning among the health care team, including patients, caregivers, and clinicians. OBJECTIVE We aim to conduct a scoping review to assess the evidence on the development and use of caregiver apps that support care planning and coordination, as well as to identify key factors (ie, needs, barriers, and facilitators) related to their use and desired caregiver app functionalities. METHODS Papers intersecting 2 major domains, mobile health (mHealth) apps and caregivers, that were in English and published from 2015 to 2021 were included in the initial search from 6 databases and gray literature and ancestry searches. As per JBI (Joanna Briggs Institute) Scoping Review guidelines and PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews), 2 authors independently screened full texts with disagreements resolved by a third author. Working in pairs, the authors extracted data using a pilot-tested JBI extraction table and compared results for consensus. RESULTS We identified 34 papers representing 25 individual studies, including 18 (53%) pilot and feasibility studies, 13 (38%) qualitative studies, and 2 experimental or quasi-experimental studies. None of the identified studies assessed an intervention of a caregiver app for care planning and coordination for people with MCCs. We identified important caregiver needs in terms of information, support, and care coordination related to both caregiving and self-care. We compiled desired functionalities and features enabling apps to meet the care planning and care coordination needs of caregivers, in particular, the integration of caregiver roles into the electronic health record. CONCLUSIONS Caregiver needs identified through this study can inform developers and researchers in the design and implementation of mHealth apps that integrate with the electronic health record to link caregivers, patients, and clinicians to support coordinated care for people with MCCs. In addition, this study highlights the need for more rigorous research on the use of mHealth apps to support caregivers in care planning and coordination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjorie M Kelley
- The Ohio State University College of Nursing, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Tia Powell
- Montefiore Einstein Center for Bioethics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Djibril Camara
- Credence Management Solution, USAID Global Health Technical Professionals, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Neha Shah
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Jenna M Norton
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | | | - Nivedha Vaidy
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Chun-Ju Hsiao
- Center for Evidence and Practice Improvement, Agency for Health Care Research and Quality, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Jing Wang
- Florida State University College of Nursing, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| | - Arlene S Bierman
- Agency for Health Care Research and Quality, Rockville, MD, United States
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Minaei-Moghadam S, Manzari ZS, Vaghee S, Mirhosseini S. Effectiveness of a supportive care program via a smartphone application on the quality of life and care burden among family caregivers of patients with major depressive disorder: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:66. [PMID: 38166907 PMCID: PMC10762964 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17594-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The majority of patients with major depressive disorder require care that has generally affected caregivers' lives. Providing care could cause negative experiences as a care burden and deteriorate quality of life. However, there is a lack of evidence about caregiver training-based informatics and its impact on the caregiver's life. METHODS This experimental study was carried out in Mashhad, Iran. A total of 60 primary family caregivers of patients with major depressive disorder were included in the study between February and July 2021. The quadruple block randomization method was used to allocate the participants into control and intervention groups. In the intervention group, family caregivers used the application with weekly phone calls for one month. The app contains the most important points of patient care and has the possibility of communicating with the nurse. The Novak and Guest Care Burden Inventory and the short form of the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire were completed before and after the intervention. Data analysis was performed using chi-squared tests, independent sample t tests, and analysis of covariance. RESULTS At baseline, the mean scores of care burden and quality of life were homogeneous between the two groups. After the intervention, the mean scores of care burden and quality of life were significantly reduced and improved in the intervention group compared with the control group (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Using the application with the ability to communicate with the caregiver, along with educational support, helps to strengthen the relationship between the family caregiver and the nurse. Despite the effectiveness of the present intervention, before including this form of implementation of support in care programs, it is necessary to evaluate its other positive aspects in future studies. TRIAL REGISTRATION Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT), IRCT20210202050222N1. Registered on 05/02/2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somaye Minaei-Moghadam
- Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Zahra Sadat Manzari
- Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Saeed Vaghee
- Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Seyedmohammad Mirhosseini
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
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Llaneza DH, Llaneza AJ, Kozlov E. Perceived Benefits and Barriers of mHealth Mindfulness Use for Caregivers of Older Adults with Cognitive Impairment: A Qualitative Exploration. Clin Gerontol 2024; 47:66-77. [PMID: 36502294 DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2022.2154728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Mobile (mHealth) mindfulness-based interventions have the potential to be feasible, acceptable, effective, and scalable interventions for caregivers of people living with cognitive impairment. This qualitative study of caregivers of older adults with cognitive impairment explored caregivers' experiences using a mindfulness therapy mobile application. METHODS Fifteen caregivers were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Analysis was guided by the phenomenological approach and inductive-deductive analysis. RESULTS Six themes were generated from the data: convenience, barriers, perceived helpfulness, useful features, suggested app improvements, and skill transfer. Caregivers reported that the app was easy to use with many perceived benefits. Caregivers also noted some barriers to using the app. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed that self-directed mHealth delivered mindfulness therapy may be a promising intervention for the caregivers involved in the study. Having the ability to use the app anywhere and at any time was a prominent reason for continued regular use for the participants. This was especially important to some caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The barriers discussed by the caregivers are important considerations for future app-based interventions for caregivers. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Clinicians can consider recommending mHealth mindfulness therapy to caregivers as a tool to provide caregivers with additional support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle H Llaneza
- Rutgers University, School of Public Health, Department of Health, Behavior, Society, and Policy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Amanda J Llaneza
- Department of Biostatistics & Epidemiology, Hudson College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Elissa Kozlov
- Rutgers University, School of Public Health, Department of Health, Behavior, Society, and Policy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
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Benmessaoud C, Pfisterer KJ, De Leon A, Saragadam A, El-Dassouki N, Young KGM, Lohani R, Xiong T, Pham Q. Design of a Dyadic Digital Health Module for Chronic Disease Shared Care: Development Study. JMIR Hum Factors 2023; 10:e45035. [PMID: 38145480 PMCID: PMC10775044 DOI: 10.2196/45035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic forced the spread of digital health tools to address limited clinical resources for chronic health management. It also illuminated a population of older patients requiring an informal caregiver (IC) to access this care due to accessibility, technological literacy, or English proficiency concerns. For patients with heart failure (HF), this rapid transition exacerbated the demand on ICs and pushed Canadians toward a dyadic care model where patients and ICs comanage care. Our previous work identified an opportunity to improve this dyadic HF experience through a shared model of dyadic digital health. We call this alternative model of care "Caretown for Medly," which empowers ICs to concurrently expand patients' self-care abilities while acknowledging ICs' eagerness to provide greater support. OBJECTIVE We present the systematic design and development of the Caretown for Medly dyadic management module. While HF is the outlined use case, we outline our design methodology and report on 6 core disease-invariant features applied to dyadic shared care for HF management. This work lays the foundation for future usability assessments of Caretown for Medly. METHODS We conducted a qualitative, human-centered design study based on 25 semistructured interviews with self-identified ICs of loved ones living with HF. Interviews underwent thematic content analysis by 2 coders independently for themes derived deductively (eg, based on the interview guide) and inductively refined. To build the Caretown for Medly model, we (1) leveraged the Knowledge to Action (KTA) framework to translate knowledge into action and (2) borrowed Google Sprint's ability to quickly "solve big problems and test new ideas," which has been effective in the medical and digital health spaces. Specifically, we blended these 2 concepts into a new framework called the "KTA Sprint." RESULTS We identified 6 core disease-invariant features to support ICs in care dyads to provide more effective care while capitalizing on dyadic care's synergistic benefits. Features were designed for customizability to suit the patient's condition, informed by stakeholder analysis, corroborated with literature, and vetted through user needs assessments. These features include (1) live reports to enhance data sharing and facilitate appropriate IC support, (2) care cards to enhance guidance on the caregiving role, (3) direct messaging to dissolve the disconnect across the circle of care, (4) medication wallet to improve guidance on managing complex medication regimens, (5) medical events timeline to improve and consolidate management and organization, and (6) caregiver resources to provide disease-specific education and support their self-care. CONCLUSIONS These disease-invariant features were designed to address ICs' needs in supporting their care partner. We anticipate that the implementation of these features will empower a shared model of care for chronic disease management through digital health and will improve outcomes for care dyads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Benmessaoud
- Centre for Digital Therapeutics, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kaylen J Pfisterer
- Centre for Digital Therapeutics, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Systems Design Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Anjelica De Leon
- Healthcare Human Factors, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Faculty of Media and Arts, Humber College, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ashish Saragadam
- Centre for Digital Therapeutics, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- School of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Noor El-Dassouki
- Centre for Digital Therapeutics, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Karen G M Young
- Centre for Digital Therapeutics, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Raima Lohani
- Centre for Digital Therapeutics, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ting Xiong
- Centre for Digital Therapeutics, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Quynh Pham
- Centre for Digital Therapeutics, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- School of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Telfer School of Management, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Hudelmayer A, Zur Kammer K, Schütz J. [An app for informal care : User experiences and obstacles from the perspective of family caregivers]. Z Gerontol Geriatr 2023; 56:623-629. [PMID: 37855901 PMCID: PMC10709374 DOI: 10.1007/s00391-023-02249-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A target group for digital services are people who are involved in informal care arrangements. Family caregivers often undertake the organization and coordination of care, which is associated with a high need for information. OBJECTIVE The study examined the extent to which family caregivers perceive the use of a mobile digital application as facilitating day to day care, in particular regarding information needs. MATERIAL AND METHODS A market-ready mobile smartphone app was used by 16 informal caregivers over several months. Qualitative interviews were conducted to investigate which app features are being used in real informal care situations and which are perceived as added value. The analysis was carried out with content analysis according to Kuckartz. RESULTS The app was sporadically used and satisfaction with the information it provides depends on the care situation itself. The participants see added value and facilitation through the app mainly at the beginning of a care situation. They expressed the wish for requirements that have not yet been integrated, e.g., regional information or individual adaptations. CONCLUSION For digital support options to develop the desired potential, those involved in informal care must be aware of them at an early stage. Further prerequisites for care apps to be perceived as added value by the target group are a trustworthy presentation of the contents, the customizability and that they are up to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Hudelmayer
- Bayerisches Zentrum Pflege Digital, Hochschule Kempten, Albert-Einstein-Str. 6, 87437, Kempten (Allgäu), Deutschland.
| | - Kenneth Zur Kammer
- Bayerisches Zentrum Pflege Digital, Hochschule Kempten, Albert-Einstein-Str. 6, 87437, Kempten (Allgäu), Deutschland
| | - Johanna Schütz
- Bayerisches Zentrum Pflege Digital, Hochschule Kempten, Albert-Einstein-Str. 6, 87437, Kempten (Allgäu), Deutschland
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Ha S, Ho SH, Bae YH, Lee M, Kim JH, Kim JH, Lee J. Digital Health Equity and Tailored Health Care Service for People With Disability: User-Centered Design and Usability Study. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e50029. [PMID: 38015589 PMCID: PMC10716768 DOI: 10.2196/50029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As digital health services advance, digital health equity has become a significant concern. However, people with disability and older adults still face health management limitations, particularly in the COVID-19 pandemic. An essential area of investigation is proposing a patient-centered design strategy that uses patient-generated health data (PGHD) to facilitate optimal communication with caregivers and health care service providers. OBJECTIVE This study aims to conceptualize, develop, and validate a digitally integrated health care service platform for people with disability, caregivers, and health care professionals, using Internet of Things devices and PGHD to contribute to improving digital health equity. METHODS The methodology consists of 5 stages. First, a collaborative review of the previous app, Daily Healthcare 1.0, was conducted with individuals with disabilities, caregivers, and health care professionals. Secondly, user needs were identified via personas, scenarios, and user interface sketches to shape a user-centered service design. The third stage created an enhanced app that integrated these specifications. In the fourth stage, heuristic evaluations by clinical and app experts paved the way for Daily Healthcare 2.0, now featuring Internet of Things device integration. Conclusively, in the fifth stage, an extensive 2-month usability evaluation was executed with user groups comprising individuals with disabilities using the app and their caregivers. RESULTS Among the participants, "disability welfare information and related institutional linkage" was the highest priority. Three of the 14 user interface sketches the participants created were related to "providing educational content." The 11 heuristic evaluation experts identified "focusing on a single task" as a crucial issue and advocated redesigning the home menu to simplify it and integrate detailed menus. Subsequently, the app Daily Healthcare 2.0 was developed, incorporating wearable devices for collecting PGHD and connecting individuals with disabilities, caregivers, and health care professionals. After the 2-month usability evaluation with 27 participants, all participants showed an increase in eHealth literacy, particularly those who used the caregiver app. Relatively older users demonstrated improved scores in health IT usability and smartphone self-efficacy. All users' satisfaction and willingness to recommend increased, although their willingness to pay decreased. CONCLUSIONS In this study, we underscore the significance of incorporating the distinct needs of individuals with disabilities, caregivers, and health care professionals from the design phase of a digital health care service, highlighting its potential to advance digital health equity. Our findings also elucidate the potential benefits of fostering partnerships between health consumers and providers, thereby attenuating the vulnerability of marginalized groups, even amid crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Emphasizing this imperative, we advocate for sustained endeavors to bolster the digital literacy of individuals with disabilities and champion collaborative cocreation, aiming to uphold the collective ethos of health and digital health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeul Ha
- Department of Nursing, Kyung-Hee University Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Hee Ho
- Rehabilitation Research Institute, Korea National Rehabilitation Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Hyeon Bae
- Rehabilitation Research Institute, Korea National Rehabilitation Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Minyoung Lee
- Department of Holistic Integrative Healing Studies, Seoul Cyber University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju Hee Kim
- Rehabilitation Research Institute, Korea National Rehabilitation Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju Han Kim
- College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jisan Lee
- Department of Nursing, Gangneung-Wonju National University, Wonju, Gangwon State, Republic of Korea
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Sidek NN, Tengku Ismail TA, Kamalakannan S, Chen XW, Romli MH, Mat Said MZ, Papachristou Nadal I, Ibrahim KA, Musa KI. A mixed-methods study on the implementation of a mobile health application (mHealth app) for stroke caregivers in Malaysia: healthcare providers' perspective. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1222260. [PMID: 37905189 PMCID: PMC10613485 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1222260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Recognizing the burden experienced by caregivers of stroke survivors, an intervention using mobile health applications (mHealth apps) has been proposed to support and empower stroke caregivers. This study aimed to assess the acceptability and expectations of healthcare providers, who play a vital role as gatekeepers in the healthcare system, to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of the intervention. Methods This was a concurrent mixed-method study design, with healthcare providers involved in stroke care management in the northeast regions of Malaysia as study participants. The qualitative component of the study was conducted using a phenomenological approach that involved in-depth interviews to explore the acceptability and expectations of healthcare providers regarding the adoption of mHealth apps in the context of stroke caregiving. The study was complemented by quantitative data collected through an online survey using an adjusted version of the technology acceptance model tool. Results In total, 239 participants from diverse backgrounds and professions were enrolled in the study, with 12 in the qualitative component and 227 in the quantitative component. The findings from the quantitative survey showed that over 80% of the participants expressed their intention to use mHealth apps. The qualitative component generated two themes related to the acceptability and expectations of mHealth apps, which were integrated with the quantitative findings. Additionally, in-depth interviews revealed a new theme, namely the key features of mHealth, with three sub-themes: availability of services for caregivers, provision of knowledge skills, and supporting caregivers in managing stroke patients. Conclusion Healthcare providers demonstrated excellent acceptability of this mHealth intervention as part of caregiving assistance, particularly with the inclusion of essential key features. However, future investigations are necessary to establish the feasibility of integrating the mHealth app into the healthcare system and to ensure its long-term sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norsima Nazifah Sidek
- Department of Community Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
- Clinical Research Centre, Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Tengku Alina Tengku Ismail
- Department of Community Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Sureshkumar Kamalakannan
- Department of Non-Communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Social Work, Education, and Community Well-being, Northumbria University, Coach Lane Campus, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Xin Wee Chen
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Hibatullah Romli
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, UPM Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Malaysian Research Institute on Ageing (MyAgeing™), Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | | | | - Khairul Azmi Ibrahim
- Clinical Research Centre, Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia
- Department of Medicine, Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Kamarul Imran Musa
- Department of Community Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
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Premanandan S, Ahmad A, Cajander Å, Ågerfalk P, van Gemert-Pijnen L. Designing and Evaluating IT Applications for Informal Caregivers: Protocol for a Scoping Review. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e47650. [PMID: 37410533 PMCID: PMC10360011 DOI: 10.2196/47650] [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: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A growing number of informal caregivers in many countries are important for effective functioning of health care in our society. Hence, they must receive the required support and services to continue providing care. IT applications can be used to support informal caregivers in their caregiving activities. However, evidence-informed guidelines for developing such IT applications and their evaluation are scarce. Hence, this scoping review can aid researchers and designers by providing design recommendations for IT apps for caregivers and potentially improve the design of IT applications for caregivers to meet their needs better. OBJECTIVE This study aims to describe the proposal for a scoping review of current practices and recommendations in designing and evaluating IT applications for informal caregivers. The scoping review will also discuss the opportunities and challenges in designing these IT applications. METHODS We will use a 5-step scoping review methodology to map relevant literature published as follows: (1) identify the research question, (2) identify relevant studies, (3) select relevant studies for review, (4) chart the data from selected literature, and (5) summarize and report results. A structured search will be conducted in PubMed, Scopus, IEEE digital library, Web of Science, and ACM Digital Library databases. In addition, hand searches of reference lists and keyword searches in Google Scholar will also be conducted. Inclusion criteria will be researched (journal and conference) articles focused on IT applications designed for use by informal caregivers and study type to be qualitative studies. Two reviewers will independently identify articles for review and extract data. Conflicts will be discussed, and a third reviewer will be consulted if a consensus cannot be reached. These data will be analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS The results from this scoping review will be presented in a narrative form, and additional data on study characteristics will be presented in diagrams or tabular format. Uppsala University first initiated this scoping review protocol in December 2021 as part of the European Union-funded project ENTWINE. This work was also supported by the Swedish Research Council and the Swedish Cancer Society. The results will be presented in August 2023 and will be disseminated through a report to the European Union and a peer-reviewed journal publication. In addition, the team plans to share its findings on various public platforms, including social media, blog posts, and relevant conferences and workshops. CONCLUSIONS This is, to our knowledge, the first study to map the literature on the design and evaluation of IT applications for informal caregivers. The scoping review's results will detail the requirements, design suggestions, and user preferences, as well as the usability criteria and features of IT applications for informal caregivers. A mapping of studies could inform the design and implementation of future IT applications for informal caregivers. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/47650.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shweta Premanandan
- Department of Informatics and Media, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Awais Ahmad
- Division of Visual Information and Interaction, Department of Information Technology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Åsa Cajander
- Division of Visual Information and Interaction, Department of Information Technology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Pär Ågerfalk
- Department of Informatics and Media, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lisette van Gemert-Pijnen
- Centre for eHealth and Wellbeing Research, Department of Psychology, Health & Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
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Jagoda T, Dharmaratne S, Rathnayake S. Informal carers' information needs in managing behavioural and psychological symptoms of people with dementia and related mHealth applications: a systematic integrative review to inform the design of an mHealth application. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e069378. [PMID: 37169501 PMCID: PMC10439342 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-069378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review and synthesise the evidence on informal carers' information needs in managing behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) of their care recipients and related mobile health (mHealth) applications to inform the design of an mHealth application. DESIGN This is a systematic integrative review guided by Whittemore and Knafl's five-stages framework. Six databases were searched: Cochrane, CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, ProQuest and PsycINFO. The key concepts included 'dementia', 'behavioural and psychological symptoms', 'informal carers' and ('information need' or 'mHealth application'). Peer-reviewed full-text articles published in English from 2000 to 2022 were included. The methodological rigour of studies was analysed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool V.2018. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses-2020 reporting guidelines were followed. RESULTS This review included 34 studies, including quantitative (n=13), qualitative (n=17) and mixed-method (n=4) studies. Four major themes emerged from the reported studies: the need for addressing information needs on managing BPSD, the role of support systems in managing BPSD, self-care for carers and the role of mHealth applications in providing education and support for carers. In managing BPSD, carers seek knowledge about dementia and BPSD, the roles of the carers and misconceptions about BPSD. One study reported an mHealth application to monitor the behavioural issues of people with dementia. CONCLUSION Informal carers of people with dementia face a number of challenges when providing care for BPSD of their care recipients. The lack of knowledge on managing BPSD is a significant challenge. Support systems such as professional, social, residential, legal and eHealth have a significant role in managing the BPSD of people with dementia in the community. mHealth interventions are sparse to support BPSD management. These findings can be used in designing an mHealth application that addresses needs related to managing BPSD of informal carers of people with dementia. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021238540.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thilanka Jagoda
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka
| | - Samath Dharmaratne
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
- Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, Department of Health Metrics Sciences, School of Medicine University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Sarath Rathnayake
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
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12
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Than TNH, Nguyen TTT, Nguyen TC, Vu LTD, Vo PT, TTruong K, Schofield P, Nguyen TA. Smartphone app-based intervention for reducing stress, depression, and anxiety in caregivers of people with dementia in Vietnam: Study protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial. Digit Health 2023; 9:20552076231163786. [PMID: 36937692 PMCID: PMC10014987 DOI: 10.1177/20552076231163786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study aims to: (1) identify the information required by family caregivers of people with dementia to be targeted within our dementia family caregiver intervention and (2) test the feasibility of the intervention and methodology to underpin a fully powered randomized controlled trial. Methods The study setting will be the Department of Geriatrics at Gia Dinh People's Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City. Inclusion criteria will be the family caregivers of people with dementia living in the community, who attend the Department and use smartphones. In phase 1, we will identify the intervention content with family caregivers of people with dementia through 20 in-depth interviews to determine what information and skills they need. In phase 2, a pilot randomized control trial design will be conducted, with 60 family caregivers of people with dementia being assigned to the intervention or control group by the block randomization method with a ratio of 1:1. The intervention will include weekly, online, psycho-educational, group sessions hosted on the Zalo app. The participants will complete questionnaires at baseline, immediately postintervention, and 3-month postintervention. The feasibility of the intervention and methodology will be assessed, including the rates of recruitment, retention, completion of assessments, and acceptability of the intervention. Results The required information and skills in phase 1 may include dealing with worrying behavior changes in people with dementia, emotional support, and seeking support sources. The rates of recruitment, retention, completion of assessments, and acceptability of the intervention will be obtained in phase 2. The scores of symptoms of stress, depression, and anxiety in the intervention group may be lower than those in the control group at postintervention and 3-month postintervention. Conclusion The study will provide a foundation for a fully powered clinical trial for the smartphone app-based intervention to reduce stress, depression, and anxiety among family caregivers of people with dementia in Vietnam.
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Affiliation(s)
- The NH Than
- Department of Geriatrics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho
Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Care, University of Medicine
and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Tran TT Nguyen
- Department of Geriatrics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho
Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Department of Geriatrics, Gia Dinh People's Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Tuan C Nguyen
- Department of Rheumatology, Ho Chi Minh City University Medical
Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Lan TD Vu
- Department of Geriatrics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho
Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Phong T Vo
- Department of Geriatrics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho
Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Khoa TTruong
- Department of Geriatrics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho
Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Penelope Schofield
- Department of Health Services Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer
Centre, Melbourne, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department on Oncology, Faculty of Medicine,
Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne,
Australia
- Department of Psychology and Iverson Health Innovation Research
Institute, Swinburne University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Tuan A Nguyen
- Department of Psychology and Iverson Health Innovation Research
Institute, Swinburne University, Melbourne, Australia
- Social Gerontology Division, National Ageing Research
Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- UniSA Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia,
Adelaide, Australia
- Health Strategy and Policy Institute, Ministry of Health, Hanoi,
Vietnam
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Fernández C, Vicente MA, Guilabert M, Carrillo I, Mira JJ. Developing a mobile health app for chronic illness management: Insights from focus groups. Digit Health 2023; 9:20552076231210662. [PMID: 37928329 PMCID: PMC10621305 DOI: 10.1177/20552076231210662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mobile applications have the potential to assist patients and caregivers in managing chronic diseases, but current offerings are typically limited to a single disease or only focused on patients. A multifaceted app could expand the user base and provide more comprehensive support for patients who usually suffer from diverse chronic conditions at the same time and their caregivers. Objectives This study aimed to design, develop, and evaluate a mobile application that could aid chronic patients and their caregivers in managing the range of chronic conditions. Methods Focus group meetings were conducted with patients and caregivers to identify their needs, which were translated into app functionalities. The final version of the app was evaluated through a survey and analysis of the most used features. Results Five focus group (FG) meetings were held, involving 39 patients and 22 caregivers. The app included medication aids, self-monitoring aids, activation reminders, messages for caregiver shifts, remote monitoring, medicine management, and informative videos. Testing by 65 patients revealed that medication reminders (96.8% positive responses), medicine information (96.8%), messages for caregiver shifts (90.3%), and ease of use (80.6%) were the most valued aspects. The most frequently used feature was the health data record check. Conclusions A multifaceted mobile application can address the needs of a variety of chronic patients and their caregivers, while still being easy to use. The app's most used functionalities were aligned with the needs expressed in the FG, which reflects the success of this study and suggests that future research could benefit from incorporating similar user-centered design methodologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- César Fernández
- Telematics Engineering, Miguel Hernandez University, Elche, Spain
| | | | | | - Irene Carrillo
- Health Psychology Department, Miguel Hernandez University, Elche, Spain
| | - José Joaquín Mira
- Health Psychology Department, Miguel Hernandez University, Elche, Spain
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Rashid NSA, Chen XW, Mohamad Marzuki MF, Takshe AA, Okasha A, Maarof F, Yunus RM. Development and Usability Assessment of a Mobile App (Demensia KITA) to Support Dementia Caregivers in Malaysia: A Study Protocol. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11880. [PMID: 36231181 PMCID: PMC9565760 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191911880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The impact of dementia on caregivers is complex and multi-dimensional. In low- and middle-income settings, caregivers are often left without adequate support, despite their multiple needs. These include health information, caregiving skills, social and emotional support, and access to local resources-all of which can be partially fulfilled by technology. In recent years, mobile apps have emerged and proven useful for caregivers. We found a few existing apps suitable for Malaysian users in terms of affordability and cultural and linguistic compatibility. Our study aims to design a mobile app that suits dementia caregivers in Malaysia and consists of three phases. Phase I is content development that employs Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and Nominal Group Technique (NGT) involving field experts. Phase II comprises a mobile app (Demensia KITA) designed in collaboration with a software developer specializing in mobile health apps. Phase III entails testing the usability of the app using the Malay version of the mHealth App Usability Questionnaire (M-MAUQ). This study protocol elaborates on the rigorous steps of designing a mobile app and testing its usability, along with anticipated challenges. Our protocol will provide insight for future researchers, healthcare providers, and policymakers and pave the way for better use of digital technology in the field of aging and caregiving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurul Syaireen A. Rashid
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA Sungai Buloh, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Xin Wee Chen
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA Sungai Buloh, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | | - Aseel A. Takshe
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Faculty of Communication, Arts and Sciences, Canadian University Dubai, Al Safa Street—Al Wasi City Walk Mall, Dubai P.O. Box 17781, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ahmad Okasha
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Faculty of Communication, Arts and Sciences, Canadian University Dubai, Al Safa Street—Al Wasi City Walk Mall, Dubai P.O. Box 17781, United Arab Emirates
| | - Faridah Maarof
- Institutional Research and Planning, Canadian University Dubai, Dubai P.O. Box 17781, United Arab Emirates
| | - Raudah Mohd Yunus
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA Sungai Buloh, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia
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15
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Schorderet C, Bastiaenen CHG, Verloo H, de Bie RA, Allet L. A social network analysis to explore collaborative practice in home care: research protocol. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1174. [PMID: 36123692 PMCID: PMC9484240 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08548-4] [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: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The conceptualization of the home as a care environment and maintaining a high standard of care requires different professionals to collaborate. This study will explore collaborative practice in home care, needs and expectations of the stakeholders involved, and identify their roles and tasks. Secondly, it will investigate possible strategies to improve home care management and, more particularly, optimize collaborative practice in home care. Methods The study will be conducted during three distinct consecutive phases, within a multiphase mixed-methods design. Phase 1 will use a quantitative approach in which a social network analysis will be conducted to have an overview of collaborative practice in home care in French-speaking Switzerland. Phases 2 and 3 will be qualitative and focus on three different situations involving different locations (rural and urban) and different home care functioning (home care provided by agencies and home care providing by independent caregivers). In each situation, semi-structured interviews will be conducted with home care recipients and their home caregivers. In phase 2, results of phase 1’s network analysis will be discussed, such as roles, needs, and expectations of all stakeholders involved in home care. In phase 3, phase 2’s findings will be discussed and strategies to improve home care and to optimize collaborative practice will be explored. Discussion Over the past years, home care has grown considerably. Therefore, more and more different caregivers are involved in the recipients' homes. Since optimal coordination between these different caregivers is a prerequisite for quality and safe care, it is essential to investigate the existing collaborative practice and how it is functioning. This study will provide knowledge on roles, needs and expectations of different caregivers involved in home care. It will also allow for strategies to optimize collaborative practice and thus ensure comprehensive care for recipients. Finally, it will serve as a basis for future studies that can be conducted to address identified needs. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-022-08548-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloé Schorderet
- School of Health Sciences, HES-SO Valais-Wallis, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, Valais, Sion, Switzerland. .,Department of Epidemiology, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands. .,The Sense, Innovation & Research Center, Sion, Switzerland.
| | - Caroline H G Bastiaenen
- Department of Epidemiology, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Henk Verloo
- School of Health Sciences, HES-SO Valais-Wallis, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, Valais, Sion, Switzerland.,Service of Old Age Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Robert A de Bie
- Department of Epidemiology, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Lara Allet
- School of Health Sciences, HES-SO Valais-Wallis, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, Valais, Sion, Switzerland.,The Sense, Innovation & Research Center, Sion, Switzerland.,Department of Medicine, University Hospitals of Geneva and University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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16
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Bidenko K, Bohnet-Joschko S. Supporting family care: a scoping app review. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2022; 22:162. [PMID: 35729573 PMCID: PMC9210723 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-022-01906-6] [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: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mobile applications (apps) may provide family caregivers of people with chronic diseases and conditions with access to support and good information. However, thorough understanding of how these apps meet the main needs and requirements of the users is currently lacking. The aim of this study was to review the currently available apps for family caregivers and evaluate their relevance to main domains of caregiving activities, caregivers’ personal needs, and caregivers’ groups found in previous research on family caregivers. Methods We conducted a scoping review on English-language and German-language apps for family caregivers on two major app stores: Google Play Store and iOS App Store. Apps were included if the main target group were family caregivers. Data were extracted from the app descriptions provided by the app producers in the app stores. Results The majority of the apps was designed to assist caregivers in their caregiving activities. Apps were rarely tailored to specific groups of family caregivers such as young carers and their needs. Further, apps addressing caregivers’ personal health, financial security, and work issues were scarce. Commercial apps dominated the market, often intermediating paid services or available for users of specific hardware. Public and non-profit organizations provided best-rated and free-of-charge apps but had a very limited range of services with focus on caregivers’ health and training. Conclusions Our results indicate that current apps for family caregivers do not distinguish specific groups of family caregivers, also they rarely address caregivers’ personal needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Bidenko
- Chair of Management and Innovation in Health Care, Witten/Herdecke University, Alfred-Herrhausen-Straße 50, 58448, Witten, Germany.
| | - Sabine Bohnet-Joschko
- Chair of Management and Innovation in Health Care, Witten/Herdecke University, Alfred-Herrhausen-Straße 50, 58448, Witten, Germany
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Wie kann eine assistierte Technologie pflegende Angehörige im Pflegealltag unterstützen? Ergebnisse einer Machbarkeitsstudie zur App Liv. HEILBERUFESCIENCE 2022; 13:162-170. [PMID: 35668717 PMCID: PMC9156615 DOI: 10.1007/s16024-022-00371-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Hintergrund Aufgrund der älter werdenden Bevölkerung und der Zunahme von Menschen mit chronischen Erkrankungen im Alter, steigt die Zahl der pflegenden Angehörigen sowie deren Wert für die Versorgung. Dabei agieren sie meist ohne Vorerfahrungen im Bereich der Versorgung, haben begrenztes Verständnis für das Gesundheitssystem und erfüllen die Aufgabe neben der Bewältigung des eigenen Alltags. Daher gewinnen technische Unterstützungsmöglichkeiten wie die App Liv (entwickelt im Projekt münster.land.leben) an Bedeutung. Ziel der App Liv ist die Verbesserung der digitalen Gesundheitskompetenz der vulnerablen Gruppe der pflegenden Angehörigen in Deutschland. Ziel der Arbeit (Fragestellung) Ziel dieser Studie war, einen Prototyp der App Liv partizipativ mit pflegenden Angehörigen zu testen und das Konzept der App weiterzuentwickeln. Material und Methoden Mit 10 pflegenden Angehörigen wurden unter Zuhilfenahme eines Prototyps der App qualitative online Interviews geführt, mittels qualitativer Inhaltsanalyse ausgewertet. Ergebnisse Die pflegenden Angehörigen bewerteten das Layout und die Einfachheit der Funktionen insgesamt positiv. Als Voraussetzung für die Nutzung betonten die Interviewten die Einfachheit der Anwendung und eine Vielfalt an Dokumentationsmöglichkeiten. Erweiterungsvorschläge erfolgten in den Bereichen Spezifizierung der Aktivitäten, Hinzufügung von weiteren Kommunikationsformen, Reminder oder Bestätigungen für erledigte oder zu erledigende Aufgaben, Verweis auf weiterführende Informationen, Verknüpfung mit anderen digitalen Systemen und Hinterlegung wichtiger Dokumente. Diskussion Aus Sicht der Betroffenen stößt die App auf eine Versorgungslücke. Auf Grundlage der Vorschläge der Interviewteilnehmerinnen werden 6 Erweiterungen für die App diskutiert. Um die App nicht zu überfrachten, müssen diese in einer weiteren Studie auf ihre Nützlichkeit getestet werden.
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Moberg C, Grundberg Å, Konradsen H, Kallström AP, Leung AY, Kabir ZN. Meeting own needs and supporting ability to care: Family caregivers' and health care professionals' perspectives on professional support provided through a potential mobile application. DEMENTIA 2022; 21:1120-1134. [PMID: 35300535 DOI: 10.1177/14713012211065313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A majority of persons with dementia in Sweden live in their own homes and are often cared for by family members. Caring for a family member may be a positive experience. It may, however, also be a negative experience as symptoms like disturbing behavior and delusions may be difficult to encounter. The burden of being a family caregiver has been shown to affect the caregivers' quality of life. OBJECTIVE To explore stakeholders' perspectives on a potential mobile application through which family caregivers could be supported by healthcare professionals in caring for a person with dementia living at home. METHOD Eight individual interviews with family caregivers and a focus group with eight healthcare professionals specialized in dementia care were analyzed using content analysis method. RESULTS The findings suggest that a mobile application can support family caregivers to meet their own needs in terms of finding structure in everyday life, how to get information and support in their own pace, and how to care for themselves. The findings also suggest the necessity of accessing relevant contact networks to be supported in the ability to care for a family member with dementia. CONCLUSION Healthcare and social services mediated support provided through user-friendly mobile application has the potential to support family caregivers both in taking care of a person with dementia and caring for themselves. Moreover, it is important that the information provided to family caregivers is personalized according to the needs of the family caregivers as the family member's dementia advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Moberg
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, NVS, 27106Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Åke Grundberg
- Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, LIME, 27106Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hanne Konradsen
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, NVS, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Clinical Medicine, 4321University of Copenhagen, Kobenhavn, Denmark; Department of Gastroenterology, Herley and Gentofte Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ana Paula Kallström
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, NVS, 27106Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Angela Ym Leung
- Centre for Gerontological Nursing, School of Nursing, 105806The Hong Kong Polytechnic University of Hong Kong, China
| | - Zarina N Kabir
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, NVS, 27106Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Bining M, Wasserman S, Brahim LO, Belzile E, Magalhaes M, Lambert SD. An Evaluation of Publicly Available Smartphone Apps to Support Unpaid Cancer Caregivers. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 63:430-439. [PMID: 34606930 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT With advancements in mobile technology and increased access to smartphones, the use of Mobile Health applications (apps) has surged. These apps provide an innovative avenue for supporting cancer caregivers who face increasing burden and lack formal support; however, the quality of these apps has not been formally evaluated. OBJECTIVES Evaluate the quality, usefulness, therapeutic potential, and security of publicly available apps to support unpaid cancer caregivers in managing their roles and responsibilities. METHODS Cancer caregiving apps were identified through a search of the Apple and Google Play stores in October 2020. Two authors evaluated the apps using 1) the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS) tool for quality, 2) complementary sections of Enlight for therapeutic persuasiveness and alliance, security and privacy, and 3) an unmet needs checklist to assess usefulness. Analyses were undertaken to identify high-scoring apps. RESULTS Overall, 24 apps were evaluated by two authors (MB, SW). Across the sample, the mean quality score (MARS) was adequate at 65.7% (3.3/5.0, SD = .5, range: 2.3-4.2). The combined score for therapeutic persuasiveness and alliance (Enlight) was fair at 60.7% (3.0/5.0, SD = .8, range: 1.1-4.5), and the privacy and security checklists yielded means of 79.3% (6.3/8.0, SD = 1.4, range: 50.0%-100.0%) and 41.3% (1.7/4.0, SD = 1.4, range: 0.0-100.0%), respectively. The unmet needs checklist was 43.2% (SD = 5.3, range: 9.4%-69.7%). A hierarchical cluster analysis identified 12 high scoring apps. CONCLUSION Superior cluster apps scored acceptably for quality and privacy and low for security and usefulness. Findings will assist clinicians, caregivers, and families identify apps to support cancer caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mira Bining
- Ingram School of Nursing (M.B., S.W., L.O.B., S.D.L.), McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
| | - Sydney Wasserman
- Ingram School of Nursing (M.B., S.W., L.O.B., S.D.L.), McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Lydia Ould Brahim
- Ingram School of Nursing (M.B., S.W., L.O.B., S.D.L.), McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Eric Belzile
- St. Mary's Research Centre (E.B., M.M., S.D.L.), Montreal, Canada
| | - Mona Magalhaes
- St. Mary's Research Centre (E.B., M.M., S.D.L.), Montreal, Canada
| | - Sylvie D Lambert
- Ingram School of Nursing (M.B., S.W., L.O.B., S.D.L.), McGill University, Montreal, Canada; St. Mary's Research Centre (E.B., M.M., S.D.L.), Montreal, Canada
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20
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Gebbia V, Piazza D, Valerio MR, Firenze A. WhatsApp Messenger use in oncology: a narrative review on pros and contras of a flexible and practical, non-specific communication tool. Ecancermedicalscience 2022; 15:1334. [PMID: 35211203 PMCID: PMC8816506 DOI: 10.3332/ecancer.2021.1334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The spread of instant messenger systems provides an excellent opportunity and a helpful tool to healthcare professionals. WhatsApp instant messenger use is widely prevalent among health professionals, cancer patients, caregivers and the general population. It is a quick and easy communication tool that may also be used on personal computers and business purposes. WhatsApp instant messenger and other similar tools may be a very useful complement for e-medicine. Instant messaging systems may be helpful, especially in rural areas, in medium- or low-income countries, or to avoid unnecessary travels, improve knowledge and awareness of cancer, monitor home care and support the delivery of home care. The unregulated use of WhatsApp instant messenger requires sound and shared guidelines to assure impeccable professional service. Although a significant number of papers have investigated the roles of social networks in connecting patients to health professionals, there is still a lack of information and scientific data about their uses, benefits and limitations in connecting health providers only for professional communication. The role of instant messenger systems in cancer practice and research needs to be clarified. In this paper, we report a focus on available data, pros and contras of the unregulated use of WhatsApp instant messaging, in the context of e-medicine, as an interprofessional and doctor/patient communication tool in oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio Gebbia
- Medical Oncology Unit, La Maddalena Clinic for Cancer, Palermo, Italy.,Department of Internal Medicine 'Promise', University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Dario Piazza
- GSTU Foundation for Cancer Research, Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Valerio
- Medical Oncology Unit, Policlinic 'P. Giaccone', University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Alberto Firenze
- Department of Internal Medicine 'Promise', University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.,Risk Management Unit, Policlinic 'P. Giaccone', University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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21
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Firmawati E, Setyopanoto I, Pangastuti HS. Mobile Health Application to Support Family Caregivers in Recurrent Stroke Prevention: Scoping Review. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2021.7859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY: Caregivers play a vital role in continuum care for stroke patients. Involvement of caregivers in stroke care was important. With the advancement of information technology and the rapid growth worldwide in cell-phone use and internet connectivity, additional evidence may be needed in the use of mobile applications to support caregivers in stroke care.
AIM OF THE STUDY: The aims of this review was to identify existing mobile application designed to support family caregivers of people with stroke disease.
METHODOLOGY: A scoping review study framework was carried out in this study, using the EBSCO, Cochrane, PubMed, ProQuest, and Science Direct databases using search keywords: ‘family caregiver’, ‘mobile health application’, and ‘recurrent stroke or secondary stroke prevention’. This review examined studies published between January 2011 and December 2020. Of a total of 728 papers found, 9 journals were selected. RESULTS: The results founded three categories and their attendant sub-categories. The categories was caregivers support, involvement caregivers in stroke care, and barriers. The majority of mobile application was used to provide video education for caregivers. Caregivers involved in stroke care including emotional care, nutrition, exercise, and recurrent stroke prevention. Poor connection was the most barrier in using mobile application.
CONCLUSION: Mobile application can support caregivers in stroke care. Healthcare providers are expected to utilize mobile applications in helping caregivers in post-stroke care.
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22
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Sidek NN, Kamalakannan S, Tengku Ismail TA, Musa KI, Ibrahim KA, Abdul Aziz Z, Papachristou Nadal I. Experiences and needs of the caregivers of stroke survivors in Malaysia-A phenomenological exploration. Front Neurol 2022; 13:996620. [PMID: 36212650 PMCID: PMC9539245 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.996620] [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: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Informal caregivers play a crucial role in supporting the activities of daily living, rehabilitation, and the road to recovery for stroke survivors. However, these informal caregivers are often reported as experiencing neglect and lack of recognition despite their primary contribution to stroke recovery. This study investigated the experiences of the caregivers of stroke survivors and access to stroke care in Malaysia. Method This qualitative study with a phenomenological approach utilized in-depth interviews, including ten primary caregivers, one formal caregiver, and stroke healthcare providers as the participants. The interviews were done until the data saturation was achieved, and the data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Result Three primary themes and 14 subthemes were identified from the interviews. The role of primary caregivers of stroke survivors had tremendous physical, mental and social impact on the caregivers. Caregivers had two primary needs. The need for information about comprehensive stroke care at home and the need for psychological support to themselves. The key internal driver for providing care was identified to be the motivation level of the stroke survivor and the external driver was identified to be the societal support with access to comprehensive stroke care. Conclusion The role of informal caregivers becomes critical for continuum of stroke care. As caregivers take up the roles and responsibilities of those who contribute to stroke rehabilitation single-handedly soon after hospital discharge. Results of this study highlights the needs for providing systematic support to caregivers for engaging them in effective stroke care, particularly in the community. Stroke service providers, policy makers and program planners must be sensitized to empower caregivers of stroke survivors in effectively supporting stroke survivor in their family on the road of recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norsima Nazifah Sidek
- Department of Community Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia.,Clinical Research Centre, Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah, Kuala Lumpur, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Sureshkumar Kamalakannan
- Department of Social Work Education and Community wellbeing - Northumbria University, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Non-communicable Disease and Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tengku Alina Tengku Ismail
- Department of Community Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Kamarul Imran Musa
- Department of Community Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Khairul Azmi Ibrahim
- Department of Medicine, Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah, Kuala Lumpur, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Zariah Abdul Aziz
- Clinical Research Centre, Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah, Kuala Lumpur, Terengganu, Malaysia.,Department of Medicine, Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah, Kuala Lumpur, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Iliatha Papachristou Nadal
- Department of Non-communicable Disease and Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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23
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Eyaloba C, De Brauwer I, Cès S, Benoit F, Gillain S, Pesch L, Rouvière H, De Breucker S. Profile and needs of primary informal caregivers of older patients in Belgian geriatric day hospitals: a multicentric cross-sectional study. BMC Geriatr 2021; 21:315. [PMID: 34001018 PMCID: PMC8130294 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-021-02255-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background With the improvement of life expectancy, the world faces increasing demands for care of older persons. In this manuscript, we define the characteristics of primary informal caregivers (PIC) of patients aged 75 years and older admitted to geriatric day hospitals (GDH) in Belgium. A PIC is defined as the person who most often provides care and assistance to persons who need to be cared for. We describe PIC socio-demographic characteristics, satisfaction, burden and wishes about caring; the type of assistance provided and received, their self-rated health, socio-demographic and medical characteristics of proxies, in particular the presence of behavioural disorders. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study in 25 GDH. Participants Four hundred seventy-five PIC of patients ≥75 years and their proxies. PIC completed a questionnaire at the GDH assessing burden by Zarit Burden Index-12 (ZBI-12), self-rated health, social restriction due to caregiving and financial participation. We compared the characteristics of PIC with high and low burden, and the characteristics of spouses and adult children PIC. We also analyzed factors associated with a high burden in a multivariable logistic regression model. Results PIC were mainly women (72%), adult children (53.8%) and spouses (30.6%). The mean age was 64 ± 14 years for PIC and 84 ± 5 years for care recipients. PIC helped for most of Activities in Daily Living (ADL) and Instrumental ADL (iADL). The median ZBI-12 score was 10 [IQR 5–18]. In multivariable regression analysis, a high burden was positively associated in the total group with living with the relative (p = 0.045), the difficulty to take leisure time or vacation (p < 0.001), behavioral and mood disorders (p < 0.001;p = 0.005), and was negatively associated with bathing the relative (p = 0.017) and a better subjective health status estimation (p < 0.001). Conclusion Primary informal caregivers, who were predominantly women, were involved in care for ADL and iADL. A high burden was associated with living with the relative, the difficulty to take leisure time or vacation and the relative’s behavioral and mood disorders. Bathing the relative and a subjective health status estimated as good as or better than people the same age, were protective factors against a high burden. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12877-021-02255-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Eyaloba
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Erasme Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 808 Lennikstreet, 1070, Brussels, Belgium
| | - I De Brauwer
- IRSS, Institute of Health and Society, Université Catholique de Louvain, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - S Cès
- IRSS, Institute of Health and Society, Université Catholique de Louvain, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - F Benoit
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Brugmann Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - S Gillain
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, University Hospital of Liège, Université de Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - L Pesch
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Erasme Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 808 Lennikstreet, 1070, Brussels, Belgium
| | - H Rouvière
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Erasme Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 808 Lennikstreet, 1070, Brussels, Belgium
| | - S De Breucker
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Erasme Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 808 Lennikstreet, 1070, Brussels, Belgium.
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24
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Sardella A, Lenzo V, Alibrandi A, Catalano A, Corica F, Quattropani MC, Basile G. A Clinical Bridge between Family Caregivers and Older Adults: The Contribution of Patients' Frailty and Optimism on Caregiver Burden. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18073406. [PMID: 33806026 PMCID: PMC8037634 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18073406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The association between caregiver burden and the physical frailty of older adults has been the object of previous studies. The contribution of patients’ dispositional optimism on caregiver burden is a poorly investigated topic. The present study aimed at investigating whether older adults’ multidimensional frailty and optimism might contribute to the burden of their family caregivers. The Caregiver Burden Inventory was used to measure the care-related burden of caregivers. The multidimensional frailty status of each patient was evaluated by calculating a frailty index, and the revised Life Orientation Test was used to evaluate patients’ dispositional optimism. The study involved eighty family caregivers (mean age 64.28 ± 8.6) and eighty older patients (mean age 80.45 ± 7.13). Our results showed that higher frailty status and lower levels of optimism among patients were significantly associated with higher levels of overall burden and higher burden related to the restriction of personal time among caregivers. Patients’ frailty was additionally associated with caregivers’ greater feelings of failure, physical stress, role conflicts, and embarrassment. Understanding the close connection between patient-related factors and the burden of caregivers appears to be an actual challenge with significant clinical, social, and public health implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Sardella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (A.S.); (M.C.Q.)
| | - Vittorio Lenzo
- Department of Social and Educational Sciences of the Mediterranean Area, “Dante Alighieri” University for Foreigners of Reggio Calabria, 89125 Reggio Calabria, Italy;
| | - Angela Alibrandi
- Unit of Statistical and Mathematical Science, Department of Economics, University of Messina, 98123 Messina, Italy;
| | - Antonino Catalano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, School and Unit of Geriatrics, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (A.C.); (F.C.)
| | - Francesco Corica
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, School and Unit of Geriatrics, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (A.C.); (F.C.)
| | - Maria C. Quattropani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (A.S.); (M.C.Q.)
| | - Giorgio Basile
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, School and Unit of Geriatrics, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (A.C.); (F.C.)
- Correspondence:
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