Internet-based caregiver support for Chinese Canadians taking care of a family member with alzheimer disease and related dementia.
ABSTRACTThe aim of this study was to assess the usability of a new Internet-based Caregiver Support Service (ICSS) and evaluate its effects on health outcomes of Chinese Canadians who cared for a family member with dementia. Demographic and questionnaire data were collected from 28 participants, and in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 participants. Results showed that non-users reported higher levels of burden post-intervetion, and frequent users showed post-intervention reduction in experienced burden. Traditional beliefs shaped caregivers' needs; also, ethno-cultural-linguistic contexts affected system usability and were associated with usage behaviour. This study indicates that caregivers can benefit from receiving professional support via asynchronous e-mails and a dedicated information web site. The ICSS is a feasible approach for supporting caregivers who prefer an alternative service model. This emerging service requires more research in: enhanced technology design, service delivery models for immigrant caregivers, and evaluation of effectiveness and cost-effectiveness.
Chiu
Teresa
T
COTA Health, China. teresa.ml.chiu@inet.polyu.edu.hk
Marziali
Elsa
E
Colantonio
Angela
A
Carswell
Anne
A
Gruneir
Marilyn
M
Tang
Mary
M
Eysenbach
Gunther
G
D000328:Adult; D000544:Alzheimer Disease / Q000523:psychology*; D002170:Canada; D017028:Caregivers / Q000523:psychology*; D002681:China / Q000208:ethnology; D003469:Culture; D003704:Dementia / Q000523:psychology*; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D007803:Language Arts; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012494:Sampling Studies; D012944:Social Support; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires