Building Better Caregivers
The Building Better Caregivers online program was developed and tested in a pilot study for the United States Department of Veteran Affairs for informal caregivers of people with traumatic brain injury (TBI), post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), dementia, or other diagnosed memory impairments.
Groups of about 24 caregivers participate together. Workshops are facilitated by two trained facilitators, one or both of whom are peer caregivers. Topics include: skills that may lead to stress reduction for caregiver and the care partner, self-care methods to improve caregiver's health, dealing with difficult emotions, managing difficult care partner behaviors, planning for the future, information about resources, and increasing communication skills.
The program is being offered to U.S. Armed Forces veterans through the VA Caregiver Support Program.
What People are Saying
“I am now aware of trigger points and able to handle things calmly. My energy level is up. Taking a deep breath and using positive thinking before I say something can prevent me from blurting out in anger. This class and the others in the program have been a life saver. I enjoy my life (most of the time).”
“I now include myself in planning for my husband’s care.”
Program Details
Settings/Facilities
Online workshop
Duration
Each workshop is 6 weeks with new lessons each week. Participants are asked to log on at their convenience 2-3 times each week for a total of about 2 hours. There are no requirements that participants log in at the same time.
Program Costs
Costs Include
Outcomes
Caregivers showed significant reductions in caregiver burden, depression, pain and stress. Caregiver self-efficacy and two exercise measures improved. The care partners' overall health improved. The program successfully reached rural residents and participation was high. The Building Better Caregivers program was acceptable to caregivers, whose health, emotional health and health behaviors improved. Caregivers successfully participated in the program.
Materials
Staffing
Workshops are facilitated by two trained leaders, one or both of whom are non-health professionals with HIV.
Individual vs. Group
Small Group
Mode
Online
Data Requirements
Languages
The PSMP is available in English, Spanish, and Japanese.
