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Use of the internet by informal caregivers assisting people with multiple sclerosis
- Authors:
- BUCHANAN Robert J., HUANG Chunfeng, CRUDDEN Adele
- Journal article citation:
- Journal of Technology in Human Services, 30(2), April 2012, pp.72-93.
- Publisher:
- Taylor and Francis
- Place of publication:
- Philadelphia, USA
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common neurological disease disabling younger adults in the United States. About 30% of people with MS in the US require support and assistance at home, with an estimated 80% of that care provided by informal caregivers, usually family members. Previous studies have identified that the internet is used to help informal caregivers provide assistance to people with chronic illness and disability. The aim of this study was to identify characteristics of informal caregivers, caregiving, and people with MS receiving their assistance that are associated with caregiver use of the internet. A sample of 530 informal caregivers assisting people with MS was recruited using the Registry of the North American Research Committee on Multiple Sclerosis (NARCOMS). Factors associated with internet use were identified using a logistic regression model. Duration of MS in the person receiving care and caregiver age predicted lower internet use. More hours per week providing care and higher caregiver educational level increased odds of internet use. The internet can be a low-cost service delivery option to provide education and support to caregivers assisting people with MS.