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Impact of a multicomponent support services program on informal caregivers of adults aging with disabilities
- Authors:
- LAVELA Sherri L., et al
- Journal article citation:
- Journal of Gerontological Social Work, 55(2), February 2012, pp.160-174.
- Publisher:
- Taylor and Francis
- Place of publication:
- Philadelphia, USA
A multicomponent support services program was implemented for veterans aging with disabilities and their informal caregivers (n = 42 dyads, caregiver average age 56 years) living in Florida. The programme was provided through Social Work Services and targeted high risk families. It included 24 hour in-home respite care, caregiver group support, and education and skills training. It was designed to keep veterans in their home while providing temporary relief to family caregivers. Caregiver outcomes (satisfaction, physical and mental health status, burden, and benefits) were evaluated before and after program use. They reported significant improvements in mental health post-program. Those who provided care to individuals with impaired physical health experienced meaningful improvements in burden after the support services were implemented. The authors conclude that supporting caregiver health status through such programs is vital to preserve noninstitutional long-term care for persons aging with disabilities, particularly when care is provided over many years to an individual with physical impairments.