Design suggestions for a persuasive e-coaching application: A study on informal caregivers’ needs

Abstract

Objective Informal caregivers such as relatives or close friends of patients are essential for caregiving at home. However, caregiving is a complex experience that may affect the caregivers’ well-being. Therefore, there is a need to provide support for caregivers, which we address in this article by proposing design suggestions for an e-coaching application. This study identifies the unmet needs of caregivers in Sweden and provides design suggestions for an e-coaching application using the persuasive system design (PSD) model. The PSD model offers a systematic approach to designing IT interventions. Methods A qualitative research design was used, and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 informal caregivers from different municipalities in Sweden. A thematic analysis was performed to analyze the data. The PSD model was used to map the needs emerging from this analysis to propose design suggestions for an e-coaching application for caregivers. Results Six needs were identified, and based on them, we proposed design suggestions for an e-coaching application using the PSD model. These unmet needs are monitoring and guidance, assistance to avail formal care services, access to practical information without being overwhelmed, feeling of community, access to informal support, and grief acceptance. The last two needs could not be mapped using the existing PSD model, resulting in an extended PSD model. Conclusion This study revealed the important needs of informal caregivers based on which design suggestions for an e-coaching application were presented. We also proposed an adapted PSD model. This adapted PSD model can be further used for designing digital interventions in caregiving.

The effect of internet-administered support (carer eSupport) on preparedness for caregiving in informal caregivers of patients with head and neck cancer compared with support as usual: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

“…These features are pinpointed as essential for any possible future implementation of Carer eSupport in routine clinical care but are lacking in existing research regarding support directed to ICs [ 20 ]. Our multidisciplinary research group, including expertise in human–computer interaction, is unique and an additional strength, since usability is key to facilitating long-term engagement in Internet-administered support [ 21 , 22 ]. The results of the feasibility study met the preset criteria for feasibility [ 24 ] and identified how Carer eSupport and the study procedures could be improved, thereby increasing the possibility for a productive RCT.…”

“…Thus, existing interventions lack the necessary components to bridge the gap between research and clinical care. We want to reduce the gap between scientific evidence and practical application, ultimately enhancing health outcomes for both ICs and patients by exploring the potential of Internet-administered interventions designed with ICs’ input and emphasizing the importance of application usability to cater to a diverse range of technological proficiencies and maintain long-term engagement [ 21 , 22 ].…”

Coaching as a method of support for informal and formal caregivers in palliative care

“…In addition to health care professionals, informal caregivers of chronically ill people also have a significant role in helping their relatives, but they often receive insufficient support in developing the skills necessary for caregiving. Findings from several studies indicate that coaching can be used to implement interventions to improve students' knowledge and skills, as well as to increase their sense of self-efficacy and psychological resilience [22,23]. Consequently, there is a vital need for an appropriate way of supporting formal as well as informal caregivers.…”

Designing a Mobile e-Coaching App for Immigrant Informal Caregivers: Qualitative Study Using the Persuasive System Design Model

“…In the health care field, e-coaching apps have been used to support individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes or to provide mental health support to individuals struggling with stress and anxiety [26]. In informal caregiving, e-coaching apps can provide support, resources, and education to caregivers looking after older adult family members, friends, or loved ones [27]. These apps can help caregivers manage stress, provide caregiving tips, and connect them with support networks and resources.…”

“…However, the existing literature suggests that PSDM needs to be adapted to incorporate the use and user context [28]. In a recent study, the PSDM was adapted to the context of informal caregivers [27]. As part of this adaptation, the "self-monitoring" principle was reformulated, and 2 additional principles, "friendsourcing" and "peer mentoring," were introduced to the PSDM.…”