Work

Analysis of Engagement with CuidaTEXT , a Text Message Intervention for Dementia Caregiver Support among Latinos

Year: 2023

Type: preprint

Abstract: Objectives To assess the impact of a text message intervention, CuidaTEXT , on participant engagement and its subsequent associations with socio-demographic factors, acceptability measures, and clinical outcomes among Latino dementia caregivers. Methods CuidaTEXT is a six-month, bilingual, and bidirectional intervention. We enrolled 24 Latino caregivers in a one-arm feasibility trial. Participants received approximately one automatic daily text message and could engage with the intervention by texting specific keywords (e.g., STRESS to receive messages about stress-coping), and by chat-texting with a live coach. We used metrics and psychometric scales to quantify variables. Results Participants sent a total of 1,847 messages to CuidaTEXT . Higher engagement was associated with higher intervention satisfaction (r=0.6, p=0.007), as were several other acceptability outcomes. We found no associations between engagement with CuidaTEXT and sociodemographic or clinical outcomes (p>0.05). Conclusion Encouraging interaction with CuidaTEXT might lead to higher levels of satisfaction with the intervention. However, it might be that those who are highly satisfied, engage more with CuidaTEXT . Future research should determine the directionality of these associations. Clinical Implications Increasing opportunities to engage in text messaging may increase Latino caregivers’ satisfaction with caregiver support interventions.

Source: medRxiv

DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.06.23299630