Caregiver Perceptions of a Telehealth Wellness Program

Am J Occup Ther. 2017 Jul/Aug;71(4):7104350010p1-7104350010p5. doi: 10.5014/ajot.2017.025619.

Abstract

Objective: We sought to understand caregivers' experience of an education-based wellness program delivered using telehealth.

Method: In this qualitative pilot study, 4 caregivers participated in a focus group after completing a 6-wk telehealth program. Data analysis involved open coding, thematic analysis, and coding triangulation.

Results: Two major themes emerged. The first, "I feel like I am now prepared," included the subthemes of strategies for caregiver self-maintenance, the understanding that caregiving is a normal process, and the value of a group experience. The second theme, "It was just a good interaction," included the subthemes of benefits of telehealth, challenges of telehealth, and process of learning the technology.

Conclusion: Participant discussion of the content learned and the value of group support indicated that telehealth was effective in both promoting learning and facilitating relationships. Even with challenges, participants reported an overall positive experience. Telehealth holds promise for increasing access to health promotion programs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Attitude to Health*
  • Caregivers*
  • Female
  • Focus Groups
  • Health Promotion*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Education as Topic
  • Pilot Projects
  • Qualitative Research
  • Telemedicine*