Mary-Frances O'Connor1, Brian J Arizmendi2, Alfred W Kaszniak2. 1. Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85750, USA. Electronic address: mfoconnor@email.arizona.edu. 2. Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85750, USA.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Caregiver support groups effectively reduce stress from caring for someone with dementia. These same demands can prevent participation in a group. The present feasibility study investigated a virtual online caregiver support group to bring the support group into the home. While online groups have been shown to be helpful, submissions to a message board (vs. live conversation) can feel impersonal. METHOD: By using avatars, participants interacted via real-time chat in a virtual environment in an 8-week support group. RESULT: Data indicated lower levels of perceived stress, depression and loneliness across participants. Importantly, satisfaction reports also indicate that caregivers overcame the barriers to participation, and had a strong sense of the group's presence. DISCUSSION: This study provides the framework for an accessible and low cost online support group for a dementia caregiver. The study demonstrates the feasibility of interactive group in a virtual environment for engaging members in meaningful interaction.
INTRODUCTION: Caregiver support groups effectively reduce stress from caring for someone with dementia. These same demands can prevent participation in a group. The present feasibility study investigated a virtual online caregiver support group to bring the support group into the home. While online groups have been shown to be helpful, submissions to a message board (vs. live conversation) can feel impersonal. METHOD: By using avatars, participants interacted via real-time chat in a virtual environment in an 8-week support group. RESULT: Data indicated lower levels of perceived stress, depression and loneliness across participants. Importantly, satisfaction reports also indicate that caregivers overcame the barriers to participation, and had a strong sense of the group's presence. DISCUSSION: This study provides the framework for an accessible and low cost online support group for a dementia caregiver. The study demonstrates the feasibility of interactive group in a virtual environment for engaging members in meaningful interaction.
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