Computer networks promote caregiving collaboration: the ComputerLink Project.
ComputerLink is a specialized computer network designed to support caregivers of persons with Alzheimer's Disease. ComputerLink delivers information, communication, and decision support, accessed through home terminals. It stands as a unique demonstration of how information technologies support collaboration among family caregivers of persons with Alzheimer's Disease, and between caregivers and professionals. In a randomized field experiment involving 102 AD caregivers, 47 caregivers had access to ComputerLink for 12 months, during which they accessed it 3888 times. Behavioral indicators of use demonstrate that ComputerLink promotes collaboration by providing pathways for communications among caregivers and by facilitating their access to information.
Brennan
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PF
Case Western Reserve University, Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, Cleveland, Ohio 44106-4904.
D000544:Alzheimer Disease; D017028:Caregivers; D003195:Computer Communication Networks; D006801:Humans; D011787:Quality of Health Care; D012944:Social Support