Helping Dementia Caregivers Manage Medical Problems: Benefits of an Educational Resource. Issue 3 (May 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zimmerman, Sheryl; Sloane, Philip D.; Ward, Kimberly; Beeber, Anna; Reed, David; Lathren, Christine; Matchar, Bobbi; Gwyther, Lisa
• Is Part Of: American journal of Alzheimer's disease & other dementias. Volume 33:Issue 3(2018)
• Page Start: 176
• Page End: 183
• Publication Date: 2018-05
• Subjects: dementia -- caregiver confidence -- caregiver burden -- education -- depression -- anxiety -- health events -- healthcare; Alzheimer's disease -- Periodicals; Dementia -- Periodicals; Alzheimer's disease -- Patients -- Care -- United States -- Periodicals; 616.83
• DOI: 10.1177/1533317517749466
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1533-3175

Abstract

Background/Rationale: Family caregivers of people with dementia must attend to medical care needs of their relative, yet few available resources address comorbidities in dementia. Consequently, caregivers feel ill-equipped when medical concerns arise. In response, an educational resource—Alzheimer's Medical Advisor ( AlzMed )—was developed in 2 forms (website and book) and evaluated. Methods: Family caregivers (143 website and 51 book) used an educational resource that provides information on medical problems, vital signs, pain, dehydration, and the healthcare system. Data were collected at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months regarding confidence in sign/symptom management, burden, depression, and anxiety. Results: Caregivers reported significantly improved confidence and (for website users) decreased role strain. Anxiety and depression also decreased, although not significantly. Improved confidence related to a reduction in role strain and anxiety, and care recipients did not experience adverse events. Conclusion: An educational resource focusing on care of comorbid illness may benefit caregiver outcomes.