BACKGROUND
The informal caregivers of older adults with serious health problems, especially for stroke, dementia, and fracture, are facing numerous caregiving stress. The online platform can be a cost-effective way to support caregivers and reduce their caregiving stress.
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to assess the efficacy of a new online platform in reducing caregiver stress and enhancing caregiver preparedness and competence of older adults with stroke, dementia, and fracture, investigate the factors influencing the usage of the online platform, and examine user satisfaction and engagement.
METHODS
A longitudinal open-trial study design was applied (N=287) with outcome measures administered at baseline, 3-month follow-up, and 15-month follow-up. Primary outcomes included changes in caregiver stress, caregiver preparedness, and competence. The user profile was explored by comparing the characteristics of participants in user group and non-user group. User satisfaction and engagement were also reported.
RESULTS
Among these included 287 caregivers, 61% of caregivers used online platform and users demonstrated a significant reduction in caring stress, and improvements compared to non-users in competence of caregivers, but there was no significant difference in caregiver preparedness. The user profile that emerged from the survey data showed that younger, full-time employed individuals with upper secondary education or above, average monthly household income of $25,000 or more, and no chronic illness were more likely to use the 656 m-Health Platform. The 15-month FU survey of users revealed high satisfaction levels.
CONCLUSIONS
The online platform can reduce caring stress, improve competence of caregivers, and receive a high level of satisfaction. Additional enhancements may be needed to significantly move the needle on preparatory measures among users, including incorporating more multimedia guidance on practical caregiving preparations.