Article

The aim was to better understand how information and communication
technology (ICT) can provide support to elderly family caregivers caring for
significant others suffering from dementia or stroke.
METHOD: Ten households
equipped with an ICT system, with a family caregiver and a spouse diagnosed with
dementia or stroke, were followed and observed in a two-year case study. The
family caregivers had regular meetings in groups organised by the municipal care
of the elderly. Data from observations, semi-structured interviews, user data
from the ICT system and data about the support provided by the municipality has
been used to validate the findings. RESULTS: The family caregivers socialised
with users in the group as long as the users were stayed in the group. Meetings
in the group were an important opportunity for exchanging experiences and to
easing one"s mind. The ICT system did not reduce the municipality"s level of
services to the participating families. The information built into the system has
to be constantly updated to be of interest. CONCLUSIONS:
An ICT support must be
provided in a context of personal meetings and with a formal caregiver backing.
This will empower informal or family caregivers. Such support must give the user
the possibility to communicate and get access to the Internet. IMPLICATIONS FOR
REHABILITATION: Benefits were obtained when informal caregivers met with a group
of people with whom they share the same kind of experiences and were supported by
a formal caregiver. Informal caregivers need more attention and recognition. ICT
systems can help but must be current and maintain the users interest.

Langue : ANGLAIS