Efficacy and Implementation of a Theory-Underpinning Needs-Oriented mHealth Supportive Program for Family Caregivers of Community-Dwelling Frail Older Adults (Hi-Care): A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Wendie Zhou, Wenjing Fan, Shuang Shi et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial evaluated the Hi-Care mHealth program for family caregivers of community-dwelling frail older adults. A total of 136 caregivers were assigned to either the Hi-Care program plus usual care or usual care alone for three months. The intervention group showed significant improvements in depressive symptoms, with a β T1 of -1.593 and β T2 of -2.020, indicating the program's efficacy in enhancing caregiver well-being.
Key findings
- The intervention group had a significant reduction in depressive symptoms at T1 (β = -1.593) and T2 (β = -2.020).
- Improvements were also noted in anxiety symptoms, happiness, caregiver burden, and care recipients' frailty (all p < 0.05).
- 54.4% of participants demonstrated good adherence to the Hi-Care program.
- The program showed good cost-efficacy regarding overall health and caregiving impacts.
Why it matters
The study highlights the potential of mHealth interventions to support family caregivers, who often experience significant mental health challenges. Improved caregiver well-being can enhance the quality of care provided to frail older adults.