Diversity-On: A Diversity-Sensitive Online Self-Help Program for Family Caregivers-A Protocol for a Mixed Methods...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• High stress levels are common among family caregivers of individuals with dementia.
• Conventional self-help approaches are often underutilized by this population.
• The 'Diversity-On' study addresses this gap by developing a tailored online program.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a participatory and diversity-sensitive online self-help program for family caregivers of individuals with dementia.
• To empower caregivers to engage in self-help despite barriers and alleviate their burden.
• To promote the well-being of stressed caregiving relatives and support home care arrangements.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods design was employed, including intervention allocation, story development, and process/outcome evaluations.
• Quantitative (N=130) and qualitative (N=20) outcome evaluations were conducted.
• A comprehensive participatory approach was integrated throughout the research process, involving stakeholders.

Main Results:

• Anticipated outcomes include empowering high-stress dementia caregivers to participate in self-help groups.
• The program aims to alleviate caregiver burden and promote the well-being of caregiving relatives.
• The study seeks to maintain home care arrangements aligned with recipient and family values.

Conclusions:

• The 'Diversity-On' study's participatory and intersectional methodology is expected to yield significant outcomes.
• A customized, accessible online self-help resource will be developed and assessed for diverse users.
• The program aims to enhance the well-being and self-efficacy of family caregivers for individuals with dementia.