Implementation and evaluation of a self-care toolkit for caregivers of families with dementia

Background: Family caregivers who care for individuals with dementia are more likely to develop chronic stress, major depression, anxiety, and physical health disorders and they have a higher mortality rate compared with the general population. Local problem: Caregivers are at an increased risk of physical and mental disorders. Many report that they are fatigued and need more forms of support. Methods: This project involved a convenience sample of 35 family caregivers who cared for family with dementia. Prequestionnaires and postquestionnaires were used to determine improvements in caregiver health and well-being and caregiver resources for supportive services as well as reduction in caregiver stress. Interventions: An evidence-based educational class was developed and implemented based on the Family Care Alliance (FCA): Taking Care of YOU: Self-Care for Family Caregivers Toolkit. The project aimed to (1) assess two FCA recommended domains: caregiver health and well-being and caregiver resources for supportive services and (2) reduce caregiver stress. Results: Stress Inventory results showed notable change in high risk/low risk categorization from pretest to posttest. At pretest, 31 caregivers were categorized as at high risk for unhealthy levels of stress, but posttest showed only 9 caregivers were so categorized. Approximately, 70% of those at high risk at pretest were categorized as low risk at posttest. Conclusions: This project validated that evidence-based educational interventions can improve caregiver knowledge and self-care. Continued support may be promoted by incorporating education and offering resource brochures to caregivers during primary care visits.