DIGITAL CAREGIVER TRAINING FOR PROMOTING FUNCTIONAL INDEPENDENCE AND HEALTHY AGING
Author(s)
Keerthiga Devi Ramesh Babu, PhD1, Shyamkumar Sriram, MBA, MPH, MSc, PhD, MD2;
1University of north texas, Denton, TX, USA, 2Ohio University, Denton, TX, USA
1University of north texas, Denton, TX, USA, 2Ohio University, Denton, TX, USA
OBJECTIVES: To synthesize current evidence on the effectiveness and value of technology-assisted caregiver training programs in improving functional independence, health outcomes, and quality of life among older adults.
METHODS: A peer-reviewed literature review was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL databases (2015-2024). Studies evaluating mobile, web-based, or telehealth training for caregivers of older adults were included. Data were categorized under intervention design, health outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and implementation feasibility. Qualitative synthesis summarized key findings and knowledge gaps.
RESULTS: Digital caregiver training improved patient functional independence, medication adherence, and chronic disease management in several studies. Programs incorporating interactive modules and multidisciplinary content (physical activity, nutrition, oral hygiene, cognitive support) showed higher engagement and sustainability. Economic analyses reported reductions in hospital visits and caregiver burden, suggesting potential long-term value for healthcare systems.
CONCLUSIONS: Evidence supports the integration of digital caregiver training into community and rehabilitation programs to promote healthy aging. While oral health education is often underrepresented, including it within broader caregiver modules may enhance systemic health outcomes. Future research should explore standardized frameworks for implementation and cost-effectiveness at scale.
METHODS: A peer-reviewed literature review was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL databases (2015-2024). Studies evaluating mobile, web-based, or telehealth training for caregivers of older adults were included. Data were categorized under intervention design, health outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and implementation feasibility. Qualitative synthesis summarized key findings and knowledge gaps.
RESULTS: Digital caregiver training improved patient functional independence, medication adherence, and chronic disease management in several studies. Programs incorporating interactive modules and multidisciplinary content (physical activity, nutrition, oral hygiene, cognitive support) showed higher engagement and sustainability. Economic analyses reported reductions in hospital visits and caregiver burden, suggesting potential long-term value for healthcare systems.
CONCLUSIONS: Evidence supports the integration of digital caregiver training into community and rehabilitation programs to promote healthy aging. While oral health education is often underrepresented, including it within broader caregiver modules may enhance systemic health outcomes. Future research should explore standardized frameworks for implementation and cost-effectiveness at scale.
Conference/Value in Health Info
2026-05, ISPOR 2026, Philadelphia, PA, USA
Value in Health, Volume 29, Issue S6
Code
HSD74
Topic
Health Service Delivery & Process of Care
Disease
SDC: Geriatrics