Dementia caregivers training needs and preferences for online interventions: A mixed-methods study

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2020

Authors

Teles, S (Author) Other; Constança Paúl (Author) ICBAS; Napolskij, MS (Author) FMUP; ferreira, a (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: Journal of Clinical Nursing

ISSN: 0962-1067

Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 8 Citations

Scopus - 6 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00S-N4R

DOI: 10.1111/jocn.15445

Abstract (EN): Aim To explore how informal caregivers of persons with dementia perceive training needs and preferences in the context of online training and support interventions. Background Informal dementia caregivers commonly present high needs across several domains. Paradoxically, they are more likely to have unmet needs and lower levels of service usage when compared to other caregivers. Most studies on unmet needs of dementia caregivers have been quantitative and resorted to assessment checklists, with a minority focusing on subjective needs. Design Mixed-methods. Methods Eighty-eight Portuguese digitally literate caregivers filled a web-based questionnaire collecting written statements on training needs and importance ratings on design preferences. Content analysis of text data was carried out by two independent researchers to check the reliability of the analytic process. Descriptive statistics were produced for ratings on design preferences, and associations with caregivers' sociodemographic and care-related variables were inspected. Reporting followed the criteria for reporting qualitative research checklist. Results Five main categories of training needs have emerged: knowledge of dementia; care interactions; caregiver self-care; community resources; and laws or regulations affecting the caregiver and the care recipient. The most reported need was on care interactions, on the subcategory of providing good quality care. Thematic prominence was analysed according to the caregiver, caregiving and health perception characteristics, with trends found on formal education, relationship with the care recipient, number of hours caring per week, perceived level of dependence of the care recipient and perceived physical and psychological health status of the caregiver. Most valued design features included the use of plain language, easy to interact interface and communication with a professional. Conclusions Findings from this study further support the delivery of comprehensive interventions addressing the multiple needs of caregivers. Relevance to clinical practice Clues are provided for the delivery of online interventions, and conclusions are useful to health professionals working with dementia caregivers.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 19