Mobile Application for Perceived Stress and Self-Efficacy Management of Caregivers of Elderly Patients With Parkinson's Disease.

Abstract

Introduction: Parkinson's disease (PD) places a substantial burden on caregivers, affecting their quality of life and potentially compromising patient care. Mobile health (mHealth) interventions may help reduce these challenges. This study was aimed at evaluating the effect of a mobile application on perceived stress and self-efficacy among caregivers of older adults with PD.

Method: This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted with 80 caregivers recruited from the Neurology Clinic of Qaim Hospital, Iran. Participants in the intervention group received access to a PD management mobile application along with face-to-face training, while the control group received only face-to-face training at the clinic. Both groups completed the Cohen Perceived Stress Inventory and the Caregiver Self-Efficacy Scale at baseline, immediately after the intervention, and 1 month later.

Results: Immediately after the intervention, the intervention group demonstrated significantly lower perceived stress compared to the control group (p = 0.018). However, this difference was not sustained at the 1-month follow-up (p = 0.115). Within-group analyses showed no significant change in stress levels over time (p > 0.05). Self-efficacy scores improved in the intervention group, particularly in the domains of "gathering information about treatment" (p = 0.031) and "completing household tasks" (p = 0.041).

Conclusion: The mobile application improved caregivers' self-efficacy and temporarily reduced perceived stress, suggesting its potential as a supportive tool for individuals caring for older adults with PD. Integrating mHealth solutions may enhance caregiver well-being and contribute to better caregiving outcomes.