Exploring Stakeholder Perspectives on the Implementation of WHO iSupport for Dementia Program: A Qualitative Study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Family caregivers face significant burdens when caring for individuals with dementia.
• The iSupport for Dementia program offers a web-based intervention to provide support.
• Effective implementation strategies are needed to maximize the program's reach and impact.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore stakeholders' perspectives on implementing the iSupport intervention for family caregivers of people with dementia.
• To develop a conceptual framework for promotion strategies to guide intervention implementation.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive qualitative design was employed.
• Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 49 stakeholders.
• Directed content analysis using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research guided data analysis.

Main Results:

• 16 barriers and 28 facilitators were identified across all Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research domains.
• A four-tier, eight-component conceptual framework was developed to guide the global promotion of the iSupport web-based dementia care model.
• Key components include national guidelines, social culture, hospital collaboration, healthcare worker cooperation, caregiver responsibility, intervention systems, learning content, and digital health support.

Conclusions:

• The iSupport for Dementia program shows potential for improving dementia care by supporting family caregivers.
• Successful implementation requires addressing identified barriers, leveraging facilitators, and adapting to local conditions, policies, and stakeholder recognition.
• Developing a localized version for Chinese family caregivers can enhance dissemination and impact.