The Initial Development and Evaluation of iGeriCare Lessons

Abstract

Informal caregivers (CGs) of people with dementia (PwD) in Ontario may provide upwards of 90 hours or more of caregiving (CG) or assistance to a loved one, per week. CGs of PwD often face increased social isolation, disrupted routines, and experience adverse health effects as this work is incredibly difficult and overwhelming, requiring knowledge, education, resources, and support. eHealth interventions can help to respond to the dynamic and changing needs of these CGs. To respond to these needs, Dr. Richard Sztramko conceptualized iGeriCare, an educational multimedia tool. 10 iGeriCare lessons were created and developed by Dr. Sztramko and Dr. Anthony J. Levinson and his team at the Division of e-Learning and Innovation. The objective of this thesis is to review psychoeducational interventions aimed at CGs of patients with dementia and to evaluate the usability of iGeriCare learning modules. This thesis is comprised of two phases, a systematic literature review and an evaluation of the iGeriCare lessons. A systematic search was performed on MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, and EMBASE. 31 articles and 23 prospective interventions were included in the final analysis. These interventions were generally perceived positively by CGs. Despite CG-perceived value, there is not enough evidence in the literature to clearly state whether online interventions improve CG stress, self-efficacy, or burden. The Quality in Use Integrated Measurement Framework (QUIM) informs usability. Two experienced CGs agreed to participate. After they viewed the iGeriCare lessons on the eLearning management system (through the web-based system 360 Articulate), they were interviewed via telephone to gather their opinions of the usability of the iGeriCare modules. Qualitative interview data were analyzed, resulting in the following themes: relevance of content and information, slide design, ease of navigation, forward learning, educational tools, and accessibility. They perceived iGeriCare as an effective tool with online convenience and relished the thought of an online community whereby CGs can interact in a spirit of comradery and togetherness.