Coe A, Bibb J, Kritharidis R, O'Mara M, Lautman R, Densley K, Kovarik S, Kaylor-Hughes C, Lewis M, Palmer VJ. A mixed-methods evaluation of the impacts of an online Carer wellbeing and connection program.
PEC Innov 2023;
3:100218. [PMID:
37771462 PMCID:
PMC10522856 DOI:
10.1016/j.pecinn.2023.100218]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Objective
To evaluate a facilitated, 90-min session, delivered for four weeks, Online Carer Wellbeing and Connection Program in Victoria, Australia.
Methods
One hundred and three carers took part in the evaluation. Eighty-six completed both pre- and post-program surveys evaluating program impacts on psychological distress, perceived loneliness, and social support. Qualitative interviews were conducted (n = 76) post-program for experiential data.
Findings
Paired samples t-tests showed significant decreases between pre- and post-program for psychological distress (M = 25.10, SD = 7.08; M = 22.00, SD = 6.57; t(85) = 4.88, p = 0.000), perceived loneliness (M = 6.69, SD = 1.89; M = 6.14, SD = 1.76; t(85) = 3.45, p = 0.000) and perceived social support (M = 8.31, SD = 2.48; M = 8.83, SD = 2.21; t(85) = -2.54, p = 0.013). Thematic analysis identified positive experiences and the mechanisms of action (or the ingredients for program success) as: 1. Delivery by a trained facilitator; 2. Provision of respite for person being cared for during meetings; 3. Technical assistance; 4. Online modality; 5. Inclusivity; 6. Diversity of experience; 7. Shared understanding; 8. Safety; 9. Emotional release; 10. Reflection, and; 11. Self-care practices.
Innovation
A model illustrating the mechanisms of action based on the findings of the mixed-methods evaluation is presented to support wider implementation and translation.
Conclusion
The online program effectively reduced psychological distress and loneliness and improved carer wellbeing.
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