Information needs of informal caregivers of older adults with chronic health conditions.
OBJECTIVE
To systematically examine current evidence pertaining to information needs of informal caregivers of older adults with chronic health conditions.


METHODS
Structured search of MEDLINE, MEDLINE IN-PROCESS, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases to identify studies of caregiver information needs, followed by data extraction and syntheses.


RESULTS
The 62 articles that met the stated inclusion criteria highlighted extensive needs among informal caregivers for practical, accessible, timely information.


CONCLUSIONS
The identified information needs of informal caregivers can inform organizations and agencies that seek to provide disease and illness-related information.


CONCLUSIONS
Existing evidence supports the implementation of a health information delivery system designed to meet the needs of informal caregivers of older adults with chronic health conditions.
Washington
Karla T
KT
Raymond A. Kent School of Social Work, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40292, USA. karla.washington@louisville.edu
Meadows
Susan E
SE
Elliott
Susan G
SG
Koopman
Richelle J
RJ
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D017028:Caregivers / Q000193:education / Q000523:psychology*; D002908:Chronic Disease; D054626:Consumer Health Information; D005190:Family; D005260:Female; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D007255:Information Services; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D020380:Needs Assessment; D012944:Social Support