Impact of Tele-Geriatric Mental Health Services on Rural Caregivers
Author Information
Author(s): Humber Marika, Carlson Chalise, Brodrick Marisa-Francesca, VanPutten Rachel, Peeples Amanda, Trivedi Ranak, Lloyd Althea, Gould Christine
Primary Institution: VA Palo Alto Healthcare System
Hypothesis
Does integrating caregivers into tele-geriatric mental health services improve their well-being?
Conclusion
Integrating caregivers into specialty tele-geriatric mental health services may decrease burden and improve well-being for caregivers of rural older Veterans.
Supporting Evidence
- Caregivers reported that working with geriatrics providers normalized their caregiving experience.
- Caregivers received helpful techniques and resources for managing challenging patient behaviors.
- Home visits alleviated the time and effort required to travel to distant VHA facilities.
- Providers could spend more time focusing on patient and caregiver needs.
Takeaway
This study found that helping caregivers through telehealth makes their lives easier and helps them take better care of their loved ones.
Methodology
Semi-structured interviews with caregivers were conducted to explore their experiences and satisfaction with the service.
Participant Demographics
Caregivers were primarily spouses or adult children of older Veterans, with a median patient age of 77.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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