A computer-mediated intervention for Alzheimer's caregivers

This article describes the background and development of an automated telecommunications system, REACH for TLC (Telephone Linked Care), for family caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease. Caregivers press designated keys on the touch-tone keypad of their home telephones to communicate with TLC and the system speaks to caregivers using a human voice controlled by an Interactive Voice Response computer system. REACH for TLC (1) monitors the primary caregiver's stress level on a weekly basis and makes recommendations and referrals if necessary, (2) provides a voice mail caregiver support network, (3) offers access to an Alzheimer's expert panel, and (4) provides an automated distraction conversation individualized for the person with Alzheimer's disease to allow caregivers a minirespite break or to use as a tool to divert troublesome behaviors. The system is being tested in a randomized controlled feasibility study and the results will provide insight into the potential of this informatics technology to help sustain primary caregivers in their vital role.