CareHeroes Web and Android™ Apps for Dementia Caregivers: A Feasibility Study

Abstract

The purpose of the current feasibility study was to examine the use, utility, and areas for refinement of a newly developed web-based and Android™ application (app) (i.e., CareHeroes) with multiple features to support individuals caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia (AD). The study was performed over an 11-week period with triads of AD caregivers, assigned home care case managers, and primary care providers (PCP). The study involved quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Eleven AD caregivers (seven daughters, two sons, and two spouses), six case managers, and five PCPs participated. Data demonstrate participants were mostly satisfied with the multiple features and ability to access and use CareHeroes. Barriers for use include concerns about time constraints and not being familiar with technology. Although the study findings are promising, a longer term study to evaluate the impact of the CareHeroes app is indicated.

Conflict of interest statement

The authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.

Figures

Figure 1

CareHeroes caregiver welcome page for web and Android™ applications.

Figure 2

CareHeroes web and Android™ applications 701-B data viewed by all users.

Figure 3

CareHeroes action count over the 11-week study period (March 25, 2015 to June 10, 2015) for all users (i.e., caregivers, case managers, and primary care providers). Note. An action is defined as an operation that a user is performing on the web or Android™ application, either through clicking a button or by following a hyperlink. A total of 349 actions occurred during the study period.