Objective: The existing literature on caregiving networks consistently reports that the number of caregivers who singularly care for their disabled elderly is increasing. The primary goal of the Tele-Reach intervention was to provide sole caregivers the opportunity to gain access to a range of information and supportive service agencies, and participate in a psycho-educational support group at flexible times and from the convenience of their home through the use of a customized Computer-Telephone Intervention System (CTIS). The objectives of the study were to evaluate: 1) the efficacy of the Tele-Reach intervention for sole caregivers; 2) ethnic differences in response to the Tele-Reach intervention; and 3) the feasibility of delivering a psycho-educational and supportive group sessions via the CTIS.
Design: Two by two (2X2) mixed model repeated measures design
Materials and Methods: A total of 36 caregivers (18 Anglos and 18 Hispanics) participated in the Tele-Reach Study. Caregivers received a total of 27 conference call group sessions (12 psycho-educational and 15 support sessions). Caregivers were also trained to use the CTIS, which is an information network system based on computer-telephone technology.
Results: Approximately 80% (n=25) of caregivers perceived the study to be of great benefit, 72% (n=23) reported that they acquired a better understanding of memory loss, 63% (n=20) said that it made them feel more confident, and 53% (n=17) felt it enhanced their caregiving abilities. A higher proportion of Hispanics found the intervention to be helpful (c2=10.2 (1), p<.01), had a better understanding of memory loss (c2=8.9 (1), p <.01), felt more confident (c2=10.7 (1), p<.01), were more enhanced in their ability to care (c2=13.3 (2), p<.01), improved the care recipient’s life (c2=12.8 (2), p<.01), and were more able to keep the care recipient living at home (c2=10.2 (2), p<.01). Hispanics were also found to be more likely to feel more willing to attend support groups (c2=12.7 (3), p<.01), have more knowledge and skills (c2=9.1 (2), p<.01), and experience improved relationships with family members (c2=8.1 (2), p<.05). No difference was found between Hispanics and Anglos for the project requiring too much work.
Conclusion: Overall, the study was perceived as valuable and beneficial by the entire sample. The intervention enhanced the caregiver’s knowledge, abilities, and confidence about their role as caregivers, especially among Hispanics. The Hispanics also reported a more positive experience with the intervention, possibly due to the Anglos having more experience with and access to community services. The on-line support groups provided the caregivers with information, social support, and a respite from caregiving duties. Our study bolsters the notion that technology can be a feasible mechanism for delivering caregiver interventions and enhancing the subject’s experience.
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