Caregiver Training Research Articles

Bridging Experience and Practice: A Grounded Theory Study of Nurses' Hospitalisation Experiences as Patients or Family Members.

This study aimed to develop a grounded theory that explains how nurses' experiences as patients or family members influence their provision of patient-centred care. A grounded theory approach. Twenty clinical nurses in South Korea participated; nine had experiences as patients and 11 as family members during hospitalisation. Data were collected through semi-structured, in-depth interviews from January to October 2021. Participants were purposively sampled for diverse experiences, and all interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data analysis followed grounded theory using the constant comparative method, with theoretical saturation reached after 20 interviews. The theory developed was built around the core category of 'transforming nursing practice through empathy and reflection in hospitalization experiences'. Participants experienced healthcare services in a wide range of areas, including nursing interactions, patient rights, the healthcare delivery system and hospital facilities. Based on these experiences, participants developed a deep understanding and empathy for the emotions and needs of patients and families, gaining new insights and reflections on their nursing practice. It led to a transformation in participants' attitudes and behaviours towards patient-centred care. This study demonstrates that reflective practice and empathy developed through personal hospitalisation are important factors in leading to the shift towards patient-centred care. These findings provide a theoretical framework for emphasising experiential learning opportunities in nursing education and training to apply patient-centred approaches in practice. Experiential learning approaches, such as simulation, role playing or caregiver training, can bridge the gap between clinical practice and patient expectations. Supportive work environments that encourage reflection on patient experiences help nurses maintain patient-centred practices despite challenges, leading to professional growth and improved patient outcomes. This study adhered to the COREQ checklist for reporting. No patient or public involvement.

The effect of a students led caregiving support program on depression, sleep quality and quality of life of the caregivers and patients with stroke

Purpose We aimed to provide care support to stroke patients and their caregivers and investigate this support's impact on the psychosocial characteristics of patients', caregivers', and volunteer students' depression, quality of life, and sleep quality. Material/Methods Volunteer students received caregiving training and provided support to caregivers at patients' homes. Caregivers received care support through the project for four sessions, once a week. Depression levels were assessed using the Beck Depression Scale, quality of life with RAND-36, sleep quality with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Results The study included 15 patients after stroke, 15 caregivers, and a total of 30 students participated in delivering the intervention. We observed that physical function (d = 0.52) and social function (d = 0.67) showed significant improvements with moderate effect sizes in caregivers. In patients, Energy/Vitality (d = 0.86) showed a significant and large effect size, and pain reduction (d = 0.78) demonstrated a significant, moderate effect size. For students, Emotional Role Difficulty had a significant improvement with a moderate effect size. Conclusions Overall, the findings suggest that the project led to meaningful benefits for all involved, particularly in enhancing quality of life parameters. It was found that all participants were extremely satisfied with the study and thought that it should be expanded.

Early Intervention for Children With Developmental Disabilities and Their Families via Telehealth: Systematic Review.

Early intervention during the first 3 years of life is crucial for children with developmental disabilities to optimize developmental outcomes. However, access to such services is often limited by geographical distance and resource constraints. Telehealth can be part of a solution for overcoming these barriers, enabling the delivery of early intervention services. However, a comprehensive understanding of the efficacy and implementation of telehealth in early interventions remains elusive, particularly for children aged 0-3 years. This systematic review aims to synthesize existing research on the effectiveness and implementation of telehealth interventions in infants and toddlers (aged 0-3 years) who are at risk of or diagnosed with developmental disabilities. The primary objective of the study is to evaluate the ways that telehealth compares to conventional in-person interventions in improving developmental outcomes for children and supporting family well-being. A systematic search was conducted of 4 electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science), focusing on studies published between 2010 and 2024. The inclusion criteria were studies involving telehealth interventions for children aged 0-3 years who were at high risk or had developmental disabilities, which involved active interactions between the providers and the families. Study quality was assessed using the mixed methods appraisal tool, and a narrative synthesis was used to analyze the data. Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria: 12 single-case designs, 4 randomized controlled trials, and 2 nonequivalent control group designs. All studies involved caregiver-child dyads, with child ages ranging from 5 to 37 months and having or at risk of autistic spectrum disorder (n=10, 56%), cerebral palsy (n=4, 22%), and other conditions (n=4, 22%). Synchronous videoconferencing was the primary modality for caregiver training and coaching (n=17, 94%) while 1 intervention used an Internet of Things system. Outcomes were identified in child communication (n=9, 50%), physical (n=6, 33%), social or emotional (n=6, 33%), and adaptive behavior (n=4, 22%), as well as caregiver implementation (n=12, 66%). Telehealth demonstrated comparable or superior effectiveness to traditional in-person methods in 2 studies. However, the focus on specific conditions and limited research on cognitive development were notable gaps. Telehealth can be a viable alternative to traditional in-person early interventions for young children who have developmental disabilities and their families. It enhances accessibility and interactions between families and providers at a distance while promoting family-centered care. Challenges exist, including those of technological literacy, and the lack of research on cognitive outcomes must be addressed. Future work should explore more comprehensive interventions, including multidisciplinary approaches and expanded family outcomes, to solidify the role that telehealth plays in early intervention. PROSPERO CRD42024551286; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=551286.

Mapping the landscape of Hospital at home (HaH) care: a validated taxonomy for HaH care model classification

BackgroundHospital at home (HaH) care models have gained significant attention due to their potential to reduce healthcare costs, improve patient satisfaction, and lower readmission rates. However, the lack of a standardized classification system has hindered systematic evaluation and comparison of these models. Taxonomies serve as classification systems that simplify complexity and enhance understanding within a specific domain.ObjectiveThis paper introduces a comprehensive taxonomy of HaH care models, aiming to categorize and compare the various ways HaH services are delivered as an alternative to traditional hospital care.MethodsWe developed a taxonomy of characteristics for HaH care models based on scientific literature and by applying a taxonomy development framework. To validate the taxonomy, and to analyze the current landscape of HaH models we matched the taxonomy to HaH care models described in literature. Finally, to identify types of HaH care implementations, we applied the k-means clustering method to care models represented using the taxonomy.ResultsOur taxonomy consists of 12 unique dimensions structured into 5 perspectives following the progression from triaging, through care delivery, operational processes, and metrics for success: Persons and roles (2 dimensions), Target population (1 dimension), Service delivery and care model (6 dimensions), outcomes and quality metrics (2 dimensions), and training and education (1 dimension). Cluster analysis of 34 HaH care models revealed three distinct types: One cluster (50%, 17/34) focuses on patient eligibility and home environment suitability, a care model to be chosen for clinically complex patients. A second cluster (29.4%, 10/34) aggregates technology-enabled models using telemedicine and remote monitoring that are adaptable across settings. This type could be chosen for generalizable care. The third cluster (20.6%, 7/34) includes complex interventions involving informal caregivers and advanced medical devices, requiring caregiver training, supportive policies, and user-friendly technology to reduce caregiver burden and improve safety.ConclusionsThe clusters identified highlight practical considerations for adapting HaH care approaches to patient and contextual needs. These findings can guide policymakers in developing guidelines and assist practitioners in tailoring HaH care models to specific patient populations. The challenges encountered in collecting information on different characteristics of the taxonomy underscore the urgent need for more comprehensive and standardized reporting in scientific papers on HaH interventions.

Optimizing variables for contingency management among infant caregivers using a simulated purchase task.

Behavioral economics offers a framework for understanding choice making around public health concerns such as drug use and distracted driving. Such a framework could be beneficial to understanding caregiver choices related to arranging an infant sleep environment. Nonadherence to infant sleep safety guidelines provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics increases the risk of sleep-related infant deaths. The present study adopted a willingness-to-accept purchase task procedure, used in previous research to evaluate variables that predict abstaining from consuming alcohol, to evaluate intention to adhere to recommendations for arranging a safe infant sleep environment. This analysis would inform contingency management incentive scales used to measure caregiver adherence following training caregivers to arrange an infant sleep environment and identify variables that might predict treatment engagement. The results identified incentive sizes, condition duration, and participant variables that predict caregiver adherence. The results can be applied to future investigations that train caregivers to arrange an infant sleep environment.

IMPLEMENTING AND EVALUATING MULTILINGUAL, COMPETENCY-BASED DEMENTIA TRAINING FOR IHSS CAREGIVERS IN CALIFORNIA

Abstract The rising prevalence of Alzheimer’s dementia in California’s aging population underscores the urgent need for a well-trained direct care workforce to help older adults age in place. This study implemented and evaluated competency-based dementia training for caregivers in California’s Medicaid-Funded In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program from 2019 to 2024. The program, offered in English, Spanish, Cantonese, and Mandarin, transitioned from in-person to online delivery due to COVID-19, providing an opportunity to assess this novel online approach. Using a quasi-experimental, mixed-methods design guided by the RE-AIM framework (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance), we evaluated training outcomes, curriculum, staff roles, and delivery logistics. Of 722 caregivers who completed the training, 488 were included in the analytic sample, and 50 participated in interviews. Additionally, 11 key informant stakeholders were interviewed. Mean scores from validated instruments evaluating caregivers’ dementia knowledge (Toye et al., 2014) and self-efficacy (Fortinsky et al., 2002) showed statistically significant increases between pre-post-training and pre-3-month follow-up (p< 0.001). Thematic analysis of caregiver interviews revealed diverse pathways into caregiving, emotional rewards, enhanced advocacy skills, and improved interactions with medical providers. Stakeholder interviews uncovered implementation barriers and facilitators to intervention fidelity, and strategies for addressing the critical need for a skilled dementia direct care workforce. The training’s adaptability to online formats and multiple languages demonstrates its real-world efficacy and potential readiness for trial design. This study highlights the importance of evidence-informed, culturally and linguistically appropriate training for IHSS caregivers in managing the health and well-being of older adults living with Alzheimer’s dementia.

THE EXPERIENCE OF SOCIAL WORKERS IN BIG DATA–BASED CARE SERVICES ON PREVENTING SOCIAL ISOLATION FOR OLDER ADULTS

Abstract In response to the increasing occurrence of social isolation among older adults in South Korea, local governments and ICT companies are collaborating to introduce various intelligent care initiatives based on big data, including AI care calls, AI speakers, and activity detection sensors. This study investigates the experiences of social workers providing on-site intelligent care services to older individuals living alone to prevent social isolation. Five focus group interviews involving 15 welfare officials and social workers were conducted. The findings are as follows. Firstly, they recognized biases regarding intelligent technology, such as concerns about privacy infringement, as barriers to identifying high-risk groups and accepting services. Secondly, challenging living environments with limited internet access and low digital literacy were acknowledged as obstacles hindering the sustained use of intelligent care services. Thirdly, the presence of personnel capable of providing education and support for smart device usage was deemed essential for the continued utilization of services. Fourthly, it was acknowledged that additional personnel and support beyond smart devices are necessary for groups with impaired vision, hearing, or mobility. Lastly, the involvement of social workers with a deep understanding of high-risk groups, from planning to evaluation of service models, was recognized as essential for enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of services. Based on these findings, this study suggests practical and policy implications regarding intelligent living environments, digital literacy, ethics of artificial intelligence, caregiver training, and the involvement of social workers.

ELDER ABUSE IN OLDER ADULTS WITH DEMENTIA: PROTECTIVE FACTORS AND ADVERSE EFFECTS

Abstract With the rapid increase in the aging population, more attention has been paid to studying older adults with dementia. Despite the fact that older adults with dementia are more likely to be abused compared to their cognitively intact counterparts, little attention has been paid to abuse within this population. It is important to recognize the unique characteristics and vulnerabilities of this specific group. This systematic review, conducted using the PRISMA model, aims to critically examine, evaluate, and synthesize literature on protective factors and adverse effects of elder abuse among individuals with dementia. A search was undertaken using the Ageline, Medline, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases for peer-reviewed articles published in English up to June 2023. A total of 291 articles were identified by the systematic search, and eight articles were included in the review. The results showed that protective factors related to elder abuse are mainly examined at a perpetrator level, including caregiver-related factors (e.g., caregiver coping strategies), relational factors (e.g., premorbid relationship rewards), and contextual factors (e.g., informal support from family and friends during the COVID-19 pandemic). Adverse effects, specifically an increased risk of various medical conditions and poor medication adherence, were identified but less frequently discussed. This review highlights the need for better support and training for caregivers of older adults with dementia, as well as comprehensive policies to prevent elder abuse. It also calls for future research to find ways to protect these older adults and mitigate the adverse effects of elder abuse.

Complications that arise with nasogastric tubes after hospitalization in the pediatric population: A mixed methods systematic review.

Children use nasogastric tubes (NGTs) to ensure optimum nutrition and medication delivery when oral feeding fails or when they experience faltering growth. Although this method is less invasive, children may experience complications associated with NGTs. There is a gap in the literature regarding the types and prevention of complications of NGTs in the pediatric population at home. This review determines at-home complications associated with NGTs in the pediatric population (aged 0-18 years) and the type of education and support provided to caregivers. Databases MEDLINE, Embase using the Ovid interface, and CINAHL using the EBSCOhost interface were searched for relevant studies from January 1946 to November 2022. Twenty-four articles were found, of which 16 studies with 902 children with NGTs feeding were systematically reviewed. Two themes emerged: (1) prevalence and types of NGT complications and (2) preventable complications and education/management strategies for prevention. Seven studies reported main complications of vomiting, retching and gagging, nausea, aspiration, local granulation tissue, and inadvertent removal, with two studies reporting no complications. Most complications were managed at home, suggesting caregivers were able to address issues without seeking additional medical intervention. Key recommendations to mitigate complications included training caregivers in NGT management, troubleshooting common complications, and evaluating caregiver competency before discharge. This systematic review emphasized the need for structured training programs to improve caregiver competence and safety practices, highlighting key areas for clinical improvement, including caregiver education, reducing at-home complications, and standardizing care for children using NGTs.

Development and Delivery of Enhanced Implementation Support to Disseminate a National Caregiver Skills Training Program.

As the population ages there is an increasing need for caregiver training programs, but little is known about how to deliver implementation support for diverse sites in large-scale implementation efforts. External group-based implementation facilitation may be one promising approach. This study's objective is to detail the development and delivery of a pragmatic implementation facilitation approach to support the national rollout of caregiver training, Caregivers FIRST, at over 140 Veterans Health Administration (VHA) sites. Using administrative, survey, and project data, we describe the process of developing and delivering enhanced support to 13 VHA sites unable to meet adoption benchmarks as part of a national mandate. Enhanced support consisted of 4 group-based calls delivered within a 12-week period that used tailored external facilitation to address barriers, facilitators, and strategies for program implementation. We present key implementation barriers, implementation strategies, and sites' perceptions of highly valued elements of enhanced support. Enhanced support calls focused on 3 implementation barriers commonly identified by implementing staff (n = 25) in a site-level needs assessment survey: recruiting and retaining caregivers (83%), balancing program delivery alongside competing demands (57%), and support from other departments in program delivery (44%). Sites attended a median of 3 out of 4 enhanced support calls. In postimplementation quantitative surveys, the average response of perceived helpfulness of enhanced support (ranging from 1 to 5) was 3.4 at 6 months, increasing to 4.2 at 12 months. Respondents valued collaborative problem-solving and the ability to learn best practices from other implementing sites during enhanced support calls. Describing the process of developing and delivering enhanced support via group-based external facilitation for Caregivers FIRST in VHA may provide useful information to guide similar efforts in other healthcare systems as they broadly disseminate interventions to support caregivers across diverse sites. NCT05319535.

Evaluating a screening-to-intervention model with caregiver training for response to name among children with autism.

Among the developmental milestones related to language and communication in early childhood, one that has been the subject of considerable research is response to name (RTN). Delayed or absent RTN in early childhood is a diagnostic marker for autism spectrum disorder and a target behavior in many early intervention curricula. This article describes two related studies. Study 1 evaluated the efficacy and efficiency of a behavioral screening-to-intervention model for RTN proposed by recent research. Overall, trials to mastery were reduced relative to previous research. Study 2 evaluated the efficacy of using behavioral skills training to teach caregivers to implement a RTN intervention with their child after that intervention was successful in a clinical setting. Generalized improvements in RTN with caregivers sometimes occurred but did not maintain without programmed reinforcement. Subsequent behavioral skills training was associated with increases in both child RTN and caregiver intervention fidelity.

Nursing care plan for the clinical management of children with pneumonia in Otavalo

Pneumonia is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in children under five years of age, especially in contexts with limitations in the quality and consistency of nursing care. The objective of this study was to develop a specific Nursing Care Plan for children under five years of age with pneumonia, aimed at optimizing the quality of care and the effectiveness of interventions performed by nursing staff at the San Luis De Otavalo Hospital, Ecuador. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, with a community-based design and an observational, prospective, cross-sectional, and descriptive focus, including as a population the nursing staff attending children with pneumonia in the hospital. Data were collected through structured surveys and document analysis, with a representative sample of 50 professionals selected via stratified probabilistic sampling. Results showed that 70% of the staff have undergraduate-level training, and 49% have less than five years of work experience, which limits the systematic implementation of the Nursing Care Plan. Additionally, 38% rarely use the plan in practice, and 28% have not received continuous training on the subject. The designed Plan addresses these gaps by incorporating strategies to enhance training, standardize practices, and empower caregivers in managing the disease. This study concludes that the designed Plan represents a key tool for strengthening the quality of pediatric care in the hospital setting

Factors Influencing the Use of Mobile Applications for Driving Rehabilitation After Stroke: Exploring the Perspectives of Occupational Therapists

This study describes factors influencing occupational therapists’ implementation of mobile applications into driving rehabilitation post-stroke. A qualitative descriptive design was used to analyze interview data from twenty (n = 20) occupational therapists working in stroke rehabilitation. Key factors include awareness of emerging applications, workplace technology policies, patient impairment levels and technological proficiency, and the involvement of caregivers in patient training. The ability to observe cognitive-perceptual abilities when utilizing mobile applications provided key insights into patient progress. Further investigation is necessary to explore methods for remotely monitoring outcomes in driving rehabilitation.

Dietary diversity and development among early childhood children in rural China.

Early childhood is a critical period for cognitive development, heavily influenced by nutrition. Despite significant economic advancements, malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies persist in many low- and middle-income countries, including China, where dietary diversity remains suboptimal. Existing research predominantly relies on correlational data, underscoring the need for more rigorous empirical evidence. This study aims to fill that gap by providing stronger empirical evidence on the relationship between dietary diversity and developmental outcomes in rural Chinese children. We conducted a longitudinal cohort study of 1,207 children aged 6-23 months, drawn from 100 villages across 22 counties in rural China, with three follow-up rounds extending until the children reached 51-83 months of age. Cognitive and non-cognitive development, as well as key health indicators, were evaluated. Cognitive development was measured using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development and the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence Fourth Edition. Non-cognitive development was assessed via the Ages and Stages Questionnaire: Social-Emotional and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Health indicators included anemia, frequency of illness in the past 2 weeks, and four key anthropometric measures (height-for-age z-scores, weight-for-age z-scores, weight-for-height z-scores, and body mass index-for-age z-scores). Multiple linear regression models were applied to analyze the relationship between dietary diversity scores (DDS) and developmental outcomes, incorporating child fixed effects and adjustments for time-variant confounders. We accounted for the hierarchical structure of the data by clustering standard errors at the village level, which also reflects the township level. The regression analysis identified significant positive associations between DDS and cognitive (p < 0.01), as well as reduced illness incidence (p < 0.001) in children aged 6-54 months. Additionally, DDS demonstrated a strong positive effect on non-cognitive development (p < 0.001) in children 2 years and older. The associations between DDS, non-cognitive development (p < 0.01), and illnesses reduction (p < 0.001) remained robust under two-way fixed effects models. To promote sustainable improvements in child development and health, policymakers should prioritize nutrition-focused interventions in rural areas. Community-based programs offering caregivers training and nutritional support, integrated within healthcare and social services infrastructures, are vital for ensuring families have the necessary resources enhance child wellbeing and long-term developmental outcomes.

Preliminary Evaluation of the African American Alzheimer’s Caregiver Training and Support Project 2 (ACTS2) Facebook Live Workshop Series: A Mixed Methods Analysis

Preliminary Evaluation of the African American Alzheimer’s Caregiver Training and Support Project 2 (ACTS2) Facebook Live Workshop Series: A Mixed Methods Analysis

Family Caregivers' Burden in Taking Care of Older Cancer Patients at Home

The aging population in Taiwan increases the demand for care services for older adult patients with cancer, presenting significant challenges to both healthcare and social systems. Family caregivers perceive caregiver burden since they assist patients with daily activities, health management, and medical decision-making face physical, psychological, economic, and social stressors that impact their overall well-being. Taking care of older patients causes more complicated caregiving tasks because of the treatments and care related to cancer and multiple chronic conditions. Caregiver burden is known to be influenced by age, health, education, and disease awareness. Furthermore, in Taiwan, the participation of foreign spouses and migrant workers in family care increases cultural and resource-related challenges and highlights the need for integrated long-term care resources and social support. Using family caregiver assessments testing caregiver burden and quality of life can specify family caregiver needs that assist healthcare teams in developing family care plans. Interventions, including cancer education, psychological support, caregiving training, and collaborative models involving both patients and caregivers, may alleviate caregiver stress, improve quality of life, and enhance coping abilities. Moving forward, nursing professionals should advocate for integrated care models that incorporate comprehensive geriatric assessments and design interventions tailored to the specific needs of diverse family caregivers of older cancer patients. These approaches will help improve the quality of life for both caregivers and older cancer patients and foster a supportive care environment through interdisciplinary collaboration to address the health challenges of an aging society.

Training of formal caregivers in geriatric mental health and dementia care: Experiences and challenges from the Indian context

Training of formal caregivers in geriatric mental health and dementia care: Experiences and challenges from the Indian context

Use of parenteral nutrition in the management of enterocutaneous fistula.

Nutrition plays an integral role in the management of patients with enterocutaneous fistula (ECF), but practice guidelines are often vague because of limited evidence. As a result, clinicians must rely on expert consensus and sound nutrition principles to guide practice. The initial phase of ECF management involves recognition (eg, fistula location and quantifying output) and stabilization (eg, source control and fluid and electrolyte balance). All patients with ECF should be considered at risk of malnutrition because of malabsorption, high gastrointestinal fluid and nutrient losses, and chronic inflammation. Strict bowel rest in conjunction with parenteral nutrition (PN) is typically warranted on initial presentation, but patients can often transition to oral diet or enteral nutrition if ECF output is low (<500 ml/day) and there is good control of ECF drainage at the skin level. Patients with high-output ECF (>500 ml/day) may require PN to meet fluid, electrolyte, and nutrient requirements to support spontaneous or surgical closure of the ECF. Because the healing process can take months, transfer from the inpatient to home setting should be considered when a patient is medically stable. Preparing for discharge home requires stabilization of fluid and electrolyte balance, achievement of glycemic control, containment of ECF output, and patient and/or caregiver training. A long-term PN treatment plan should be developed that incorporates outpatient monitoring, determination of target weight, and desired PN end point. The purpose of this article is to review the optimal use of PN in adult patients with ECF.

Perceived Training Needs of the Informal Caregivers of Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Due to the enormous caregiving burden faced by informal caregivers, providing appropriate skills training has become an important supporting strategy in many countries/regions. Understanding caregivers' training needs is instrumental in designing effective training intervention programs, which are expected to reduce the caregiving burden of informal caregivers and avoid the health deterioration associated with caregiving. This paper aims to explore the potential training needs of informal caregivers in Shanghai, and to identify the factors associated with these perceived training needs. A total of 196 eligible informal caregivers participated in this survey. A multivariate analysis was conducted to explore the factors associated with informal caregivers' perceived training needs. 86.7% (N = 170) of the caregivers reported at least one need for targeted training activity, and 62.7% (N = 123) of them identified two or more training needs. The top three activities requiring training included the following: self-care skills; safety supervision; and functional rehabilitation. The factors associated with various training needs included the health status of the care recipient, complementary caregiving support, caregiving stress, and the personal attributes of the informal caregiver. The technical skills training needs were more related to the care recipients' health status (e.g., dependency level, disease progression) and formal care support resources. Conversely, the intangible skills training needs were more sensitive to caregiver attributes (e.g., gender, age, and education level). A personalized training strategy and early-stage intervention program are critical to providing effective support to informal caregivers. The potential implications are to raise awareness of the importance of skills training for informal caregivers, and to inform the implementation of effective training strategies for improving the quality of informal care and the well-being of informal caregivers in China.

Technological Innovations to Support Family Caregivers: A Scoping Review.

Population aging increases the risk of dependency among older adults, which in turn necessitates care, primarily provided by family caregivers. This situation leads to physical and emotional strain on these caregivers. New technologies, such as tele-education, digital platforms, or mobile applications, can offer an accessible and equitable alternative for caregiver training and self-care support. The objective of this review is to analyze interventions targeted at family caregivers, both for their own self-care and for the care of dependent individuals, using new technologies. A scoping review was conducted, including a total of thirty-two articles extracted from three databases: CINAHL, Scopus, and PubMed. Articles in any language were included, with no fixed time limit, while articles with samples that included family caregivers of oncology patients were excluded. Most of the interventions were conducted via videoconference, showing outcomes that indicated a reduction in depressive symptoms among family caregivers. The implementation of new technologies for the development of interventions presents a viable alternative to in-person sessions. These technologies have shown positive results, while also helping to overcome time and geographical barriers imposed by caregiving responsibilities.