Year: 2004
Type: dissertation
Abstract: This project proposed to develop and evaluate a ten-week education series for a mixed group of caregivers of frail older adults.A systematic literature review was conducted of selected studies to determine the effectiveness of educational group interventions for caregivers.It was determined that the average efficacy of programs ranged from medium to large.The sample size of many of the studies was not large enough to detect small effects.Key components of reviewed education interventions were identified and incorporated into the current education intervention.Self-efficacy theory was used to guide the facilitation and development of the education curriculum.A steering committee composed of key professionals and family caregivers invited from the community assisted with the selection of topics for the curriculum.The primary goal of the education intervention was to enhance caregiver confidence.Confidence in being a caregiver was conceptualized as caregiver selfefficacy.Caregivers who signed up for the education series completed two surveys: the first after the first session, the second, after the ninth session.The outcome variable selected for the study was caregiver self-efficacy; the co-variates to be explored were depression and burden.The method was modified due to difficulties in the development of the project, high attrition of participants, and low participation rate in the surveys.As it turned out, over the course of the series, rather than following the curriculum, the structure of the program focused on caregiver support.As a result, the curriculum was not evaluated for iii its educational merit or for its impact on the outcome measures, caregiver self-efficacy, depression, and burden.Instead, the small number of participants who remained in the study completed a satisfaction survey.As well three interviews were conducted with two caregivers and the facilitator.The satisfaction survey and interviews yielded a generally positive outcome of meeting these caregivers' needs.A set of recommendations based on ~articipants' comments as well as difficulties encountered in conducting the study is presented to assist future implementation of the educational program.... Vlll
Source: Summit (Simon Fraser University)
Author: Teresa Snider
Language: English
Topic: Nursing care and research
Subfield: Research and Theory
Field: Nursing
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W1021866523