COTA Health, China.
Can J Aging. 2009 Dec;28(4):323-36. doi: 10.1017/S0714980809990158.
ABSTRACTThe aim of this study was to assess the usability of a new Internet-based Caregiver Support Service (ICSS) and evaluate its effects on health outcomes of Chinese Canadians who cared for a family member with dementia. Demographic and questionnaire data were collected from 28 participants, and in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 participants. Results showed that non-users reported higher levels of burden post-intervetion, and frequent users showed post-intervention reduction in experienced burden. Traditional beliefs shaped caregivers' needs; also, ethno-cultural-linguistic contexts affected system usability and were associated with usage behaviour. This study indicates that caregivers can benefit from receiving professional support via asynchronous e-mails and a dedicated information web site. The ICSS is a feasible approach for supporting caregivers who prefer an alternative service model. This emerging service requires more research in: enhanced technology design, service delivery models for immigrant caregivers, and evaluation of effectiveness and cost-effectiveness.
摘要本研究旨在评估一种新的基于互联网的照顾者支持服务（ICSS）的可用性，并评估其对照顾痴呆症家庭成员的加拿大华人的健康结果的影响。从 28 名参与者中收集了人口统计学和问卷调查数据，并对 10 名参与者进行了深入访谈。结果表明，非使用者在干预后报告了更高水平的负担，而频繁使用者在干预后减轻了负担。传统观念塑造了照顾者的需求；此外，种族文化语言背景影响系统的可用性，并与使用行为相关。本研究表明，通过异步电子邮件和专用信息网站，照顾者可以从接受专业支持中受益。ICSS 是一种支持喜欢替代服务模式的照顾者的可行方法。这种新兴服务需要更多的研究：增强技术设计、针对移民照顾者的服务交付模式，以及评估有效性和成本效益。
