Effects of psychoeducation interventions on psychological outcomes among spousal caregivers of community-dwelling older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Spouses often assume the role of primary informal caregivers for ageing partners. Spousal caregivers are more likely than other family members to experience negative psychological outcomes due to their unique identities. However, little is known as to whether psychoeducation interventions can support them in the caregiving process.

Objectives

To systematically identify and synthesise evidence regarding the effects of psychoeducation interventions on psychological outcomes among spousal caregivers of community-dwelling older adults.

Design

A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

Eight electronic databases, including Cochrane Library, PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Chinese Journal Net and Wanfang were searched from inception to August 2024. Randomised controlled trials of psychoeducation interventions on psychological outcomes in spousal caregivers of older adults were included. The quality of the evidence was evaluated using The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool v2. The certainty of the evidence was assessed by the GRADE approach. Data synthesis methods, including meta-analysis and narrative synthesis, were conducted based on data availability. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model given the substantial heterogeneity in the intervention design and outcomes. Sensitivity analyses were used to assess the robustness of the findings.

Results

Among the 18 reviewed studies, the overall risk of bias indicated that four had low risk, eight had some concerns, and six had high risk. The pooled analysis suggested that psychoeducation interventions had significant effects on improving marital satisfaction (SMD = 0.28, 95 % CI: 0.09 to 0.47; low certainty) and positive aspects of caregiving (SMD = 1.30, 95 % CI: 0.44 to 2.16; very low certainty). However, the effects on depressive symptoms, caregiving burden, anxiety, mental health, coping and self-efficacy were negligible. Narrative synthesis of evidence suggested potential beneficial effects on posttraumatic growth, family functioning, family relationship and life satisfaction.

Conclusions

Psychoeducation interventions have potential to improve marital satisfaction and positive aspects of caregiving among spousal caregivers of older adults. However, the evidence has a low level of certainty with considerable variability in intervention design and outcome measures, indicating the need for further rigorous investigation. The non-significant effects on enhancing caregiving competence or alleviating negative psychological outcomes highlight the importance of exploring the specific needs and expectations of spousal caregivers.

Registration

PROSPERO (CRD42024498599).