Smartphone App-Based Psychoeducation for Caregivers of People with Dementia in Vietnam: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.

Abstract

Purpose: Caring for people with dementia (PwD) is demanding, particularly for family caregivers in lower-middle-income countries like Vietnam, where support is limited. This study assessed the feasibility and preliminary impact of a smartphone-based psychoeducational program for caregivers of PwD.

Participants and methods: In a pilot randomized controlled trial, 60 family caregivers were recruited from the Geriatrics Department of a public hospital and randomly assigned (1:1) to either an intervention or a usual care group. Eligible participants were aged 18 or older, primarily responsible for daily care, had at least a primary education, used a smartphone with internet access and Zalo, and reported moderate stress. The intervention group received a 7-week psychoeducational program via Zalo, featuring videos and interactive group chats. Feasibility was assessed through recruitment, retention, and data collection rates. Engagement and acceptability were measured through caregiver participation and feedback. Preliminary effects on depression, anxiety, stress, dementia knowledge, caregiver burden, social support, and health-related quality of life were explored.

Results: Of the 62 caregivers approached, 60 enrolled (96.7%), and 54 completed the study (90% retention). Assessment completion rates were 96.7% immediately after the intervention and 93.1% at the 3-month follow-up. Over 85% of participants were engaged weekly, and all participants rated the program content positively. Acceptability was high, with more than 89% expressing satisfaction with the content, format, and duration. Preliminary findings indicated improvements in psychological distress, dementia knowledge, caregiver burden, and quality of life.

Conclusion: This is the first study in Vietnam to evaluate a smartphone-based psychoeducational intervention for caregivers of PwD. The program was feasible, well-accepted, and showed potential benefits. It offers a promising, scalable support model for caregivers in resource-limited settings and warrants further investigation in a larger trial.