Project Carer Matters 2: Evaluating the Effectiveness and Implementation of Caregiver Support Initiatives for Caregivers of Older Patients in Singapore

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate the caregiver support initiatives provided to caregivers of older patients at Tan Tock Seng Hospital in Singapore. The study focuses on understanding how these support services are delivered and their impact on both caregivers and the patients they care for. It explores which aspects of these initiatives are most beneficial and how these services affect caregivers' knowledge, preparedness, well-being, and stress levels, as well as patient outcomes like hospital readmissions. Caregivers taking part in the study may receive various support services tailored to their needs, including access to CarePal (a resource library), a nasogastric tube training webapp, the Carer OnBoard programme, caregiver resources via a health app, informational booklets, group training sessions, telephonic support post-discharge, and guidance from healthcare professionals about community programs. Participants will either receive this comprehensive caregiver support model or standard caregiver education and information leaflets. During the study, caregivers will complete three surveys: one at the start of the patient's hospital stay, another around discharge, and a final one one month after discharge. An optional interview may also be offered. Researchers will evaluate caregiver preparedness, resourcefulness, burden, anxiety, depression, and quality of life. Patient data on emergency visits and readmissions will also be reviewed. The study will continue to collect data up to two months after patient discharge to assess the lasting effects of these initiatives.

Evaluating the Effectiveness and Implementation of Caregiver Support Initiatives for Caregivers of Older Patients in Singapore