Information needs of informal caregivers of older adults with chronic health conditions.

Patient Educ Couns · 2011

systematic_review · Level I

Where this comes from

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To systematically examine current evidence pertaining to information needs of informal caregivers of older adults with chronic health conditions. METHODS: Structured search of MEDLINE, MEDLINE IN-PROCESS, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases to identify studies of caregiver information needs, followed by data extraction and syntheses. RESULTS: The 62 articles that met the stated inclusion criteria highlighted extensive needs among informal caregivers for practical, accessible, timely information. CONCLUSION: The identified information needs of informal caregivers can inform organizations and agencies that seek to provide disease and illness-related information. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Existing evidence supports the implementation of a health information delivery system designed to meet the needs of informal caregivers of older adults with chronic health conditions.