Use of dementia and caregiving-related internet resources by informal caregivers: A cross-sectional study

Informal dementia caregivers are at greater risk of experiencing physical and mental health issues as compared to the general population. Internet-based resources may provide accessible opportunities to backing informal dementia caregivers by addressing their information and support needs. This cross-sectional study aims to characterize the use of dementia and caregiving-related internet resources by caregivers and identify variables associated with such use. Primary data were collected through a web-based survey (N = 158). Linear regression models were used to assess the associations of predisposing, enabling, and need variables with the frequency of using the internet for caregiving-related purposes. Most caregivers (93%) have ever used the internet to gather general information about dementia. The frequency of using internet resources was, however, moderate. The multivariable linear regression model suggests that being younger (beta = -0.110, p = 0.009), not having a source of support to provide care (beta = -2.554, p = 0.012), having used a face-to-face psychosocial intervention at some point (beta = 2.731, p = 0.003), being employed (beta = 2.558, p = 0.013), and appraising one's own physical health negatively (vs. appraising it as similar; beta = 3.591, p < 0.001), are associated with a higher frequency of using caregiving-related internet resources. Our findings confirmed the association of age and perceived health status with caregiving-related internet use reported in other studies. The role of enabling variables as lifetime access to psychosocial interventions and having a usual source of support to provide care was a new addition. This study informs the design and deployment of information and support to dementia caregivers.

Automated summary

Informal dementia caregivers have moderate use of internet resources, with younger age, lack of caregiving support, previous face-to-face psychosocial intervention, employment, and negative appraisal of one's own physical health being associated with higher frequency of internet resource use.