A state-of-the-art narrative review of peer support for family caregivers of people with dementia: from in-person to digital delivery.

Abstract

Background and objective: This narrative review examines peer support services for caregivers of people with dementia, focusing on mHealth interventions. Family caregivers of people with dementia experience high rates of stress and depression, burnout, and physical health decline. Traditionally, in-person peer support has been a bedrock of family caregiver programs. However, in-person peer support interventions are not accessible or acceptable for many caregivers. mHealth, or mobile health, refers to the use of mobile devices and technology to deliver health-related services or education. Several digital mHealth innovations have been developed to facilitate caregiver peer support, but the evidence for these approaches is unclear. We aimed to summarize the evidence on digital mHealth peer support interventions for family caregivers of persons living with dementia.

Methods: A search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar for studies published between January 2007 and January 2024, with keywords such as "caregiver", "peer support", "dementia", and "digital". Two reviewers independently screened and selected relevant studies, resolving discrepancies through consensus.

Key content and findings: Many studies show a positive correlation between group and one-on-one peer support interventions and psychological well-being, personal growth, and the development of coping skills. There were inconclusive results regarding the relationship between peer support interventions and clinical outcomes. Emerging digital platforms have demonstrated usability and acceptability, reducing caregiver depression and stress. However, access disparities related to digital literacy and socioeconomic factors remain significant barriers.

Conclusions: Digital peer support for informal caregivers of persons with dementia shows promising evidence for improving caregivers' support and psychological health. As the science of digital peer support advances, mHealth delivery of caregiver peer support interventions will likely have an increasingly important role in supporting caregivers' mental health and well-being.