Family caregivers' satisfaction with telerehabilitation and follow-up intervention for older people with dementia: Randomized clinical trial

Abstract

The present study aimed to assess caregiver satisfaction with a telerehabilitation program and remote monitoring for older adults with dementia and their caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to identify the factors influencing caregiver satisfaction. This study adopted a mixed-methods approach and was part of a randomized clinical trial, with blinded assessors, comprising two groups: the Intervention Group (IG) receiving a telerehabilitation program involving standardized physical exercises for older adults with dementia, along with caregiver guidelines for the caregiver; and the Control Group (CG) receiving remote monitoring. At baseline, factors related to older adults with dementia and their caregivers were measured. After 12 weeks, caregiver satisfaction with the interventions was assessed. The final sample consisted of 64 pairs of family caregivers and older people with dementia. Caregivers in the IG showed higher satisfaction levels with the intervention, Internet-based treatment, and healthcare received compared to caregivers in the CG. Both groups expressed positive views towards the treatment, with excellent ratings for audio and video quality, and a preference for Internet-based treatment over face-to-face. In the IG, only the amount of time dedicated to caregiving influenced satisfaction with the intervention, whereas in the CG, cognitive and functional performance of the older people influenced satisfaction with remote monitoring. Our findings suggest the potential of the program in providing effective care for older people with dementia and their caregivers.

Keywords: COVID-19; Cognitive impairment; Gerontology; Patient satisfaction; Telerehabilitation.