Usability of multimedia technology to help caregivers prepare for a crisis

The objective of the research was to evaluate the usability of a multimedia software application that provides information on coping with difficult situations, dealing with everyday caring problems, and first aid for emergency situations. Casual users (family caregivers, professional caregivers, and older people) were invited to use the software application and complete a questionnaire measuring quality and efficiency in utility and usability. Quantitative data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and qualitative data were analyzed by content analysis. Findings indicated the software application to have high global usability, correspond to user expectations, respond quickly, and be visually pleasant and easily understood. The authors conclude that software applications of this type have the potential to increase the quality of life of family caregivers, enhance their coping capacity, and enable them to continue for a longer period in their caring role.