Caregiver Thrive, Learn, & Connect: Testing the Efficacy of an Online Psychoeducational Program for Family Caregivers

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objectives Research reports that providing care to a relative or friend with a chronic health condition or significant neurocognitive disorders, such as dementia is a demanding job. Caregiving often leads to higher risk for adverse mental health outcomes. In this study, we examine the short-term efficacy of the CaregiverTLC online psychoeducational program to caregivers of adults with chronic health or significant memory troubles. Method Using pre-post data from the CaregiverTLC randomized controlled trial (n = 81) we examined differences between the intervention and control conditions on caregivers’ psychosocial outcomes for depressive symptoms, self-efficacy, burden, anxiety, and caregiver gains. Results Data analyses indicated significant decrease in self-reported depressive symptoms, burden, anxiety, and significant increases in self-efficacy and caregiver gains for caregivers in the active intervention compared to those in the control condition. Conclusions These results suggest that regardless of whether caregivers care for a person with a chronic illness or significant neurocognitive disorder, they can benefit from participation in this online psychoeducational program. Clinical Implications The CaregiverTLC program may be an effective method to teach skills to reduce depression, burden, and anxiety, and improve self-efficacy and personal gains among caregivers of older adults with chronic illnesses.