We found a match
Your institution may have rights to this item. Sign in to continue.
- Title
Helping Dementia Caregivers Manage Medical Problems: Benefits of an Educational Resource.
- Authors
Zimmerman, Sheryl; Sloane, Philip D.; Ward, Kimberly; Beeber, Anna; Reed, David; Lathren, Christine; Matchar, Bobbi; Gwyther, Lisa
- Abstract
Background/Rationale: Family caregivers of people with dementia must attend to medical care needs of their relative, yet few available resources address comorbidities in dementia. Consequently, caregivers feel ill-equipped when medical concerns arise. In response, an educational resource—Alzheimer’s Medical Advisor (AlzMed)—was developed in 2 forms (website and book) and evaluated. Methods: Family caregivers (143 website and 51 book) used an educational resource that provides information on medical problems, vital signs, pain, dehydration, and the healthcare system. Data were collected at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months regarding confidence in sign/symptom management, burden, depression, and anxiety. Results: Caregivers reported significantly improved confidence and (for website users) decreased role strain. Anxiety and depression also decreased, although not significantly. Improved confidence related to a reduction in role strain and anxiety, and care recipients did not experience adverse events. Conclusion: An educational resource focusing on care of comorbid illness may benefit caregiver outcomes.
- Subjects
CAREGIVERS; COMMERCIAL product evaluation; CONFIDENCE; DEMENTIA; NEW product development; INFORMATION resources; EDUCATIONAL outcomes; ADVERSE health care events
- Publication
American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease & Other Dementias, 2018, Vol 33, Issue 3, p176
- ISSN
1533-3175
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.1177/1533317517749466