Graduation Year
2017
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree
Ph.D.
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Degree Granting Department
School of Aging Studies
Major Professor
Victor Molinari, Ph.D., ABPP
Committee Member
Kathryn Hyer, Ph.D., MPP
Committee Member
Hongdao Meng, Ph.D., M.P.H.
Committee Member
Debra Dobbs, Ph.D.
Committee Member
Michelle Bourgeois, Ph.D., CCC-SLP
Keywords
Online interventions, PRISMA review, Caregivers
Abstract
Over the next thirty years, Alzheimer’s disease rates will increase alongside global aging. To handle the anticipated increase in demand, knowledgeable and skilled dementia caregivers are in need throughout the long-term care spectrum. Online training programs have emerged as a viable and convenient platform to educate both formal and informal caregivers. The first and second study systematically reviewed online dementia training programs and evaluated the CARES® Dementia Basics Training Program among formal and informal caregivers.
The first study is a systematic review of online dementia-based training programs for both formal and informal caregivers conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) method. Methodological quality of the final sample (N=15) was assessed by the Cochrane Collaboration Back Review Group criteria. Results of the systematic review suggests that online interventions improve the condition and preparedness of caregivers, but future evaluations should consider study designs with multiple time points, control groups, and content that is personalized and interactive.
In the second study, an evaluation of the online CARES® Dementia Basics Program among formal and informal caregivers was performed. The sample (N=233) included respondents from the states of OR, WA, CA and IL over three time points. Results indicate baseline differences in education, race, and caregiver type and a modest improvement in knowledge among both formal and informal caregivers. Recommendations are provided for future development and evaluation of online interventions.
Scholar Commons Citation
Pleasant, Michelle L., "Improving Dementia Care through Online Training Programs: A Systematic Review and Evaluation" (2017). USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/etd/6745