Previously submitted to: JMIR Aging (no longer under consideration since Aug 18, 2022)
Date Submitted: Jul 11, 2022
Open Peer Review Period: Jul 11, 2022 - Aug 18, 2022
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Barriers to eHealth and mHealth Usage and Preferred Features of Mobile Apps for Informal Caregivers of Persons with Dementia: Qualitative Study
ABSTRACT
Background:
Emergence of new technologies have brought upon a new age of technology- enabled aids that can equip informal caregivers with the relevant resources for better caregiving. These include, but are not limited to, facilitating access to healthcare providers, knowledge on caregiving, and sources of support for caregivers’ well-being.
Objective:
The current study adopts a qualitative method to identify barriers and perceived useful features of mobile apps for informal caregivers of persons with dementia (PWD).
Methods:
29 informal caregivers of PWD in Singapore were recruited via convenience and snowball sampling. Data on barriers and directions towards use of mobile technology in caregiving were collected using semi-structured in-depth interviews. All interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.
Results:
Barriers towards use of mobile technology include a) personal preference and apprehension towards eHealth/mHealth b) poor user experience and c) lack of knowledge and skills. Preferred and useful features of mobile include a) knowledge related to dementia, caregiving and self-care, b) list of supporting resources and helplines, c) social and emotional support, d) assistive technology in care management at home, e) management of medical appointments and transactions and f) good usability of app.
Conclusions:
Our findings report the underutilization of mobile app in caregiving. Yet, caregivers showed keen interest towards the use of mobile app if it is functional and can reduce caregiving burden. Results from this study will allow researchers to integrate these directions towards developing content and features for mobile-based interventions aimed at lightening caregivers’ burden in their day-to-day caregiving routine. Clinical Trial: NA
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