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Exploring the Educational Needs among Informal Caregivers of Older Adults with Alzheimer’s Disease: A Content Analysis Study
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Maryam Matini   , Soleiman Ahmadi , Arya Hamedanchi * |
| Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences branch, ACECR, Tehran, Iran. |
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Abstract: (480 Views) |
Introduction: Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common cognitive disorders that manifests through the gradual loss of memory and cognitive abilities, progressively increasing the need for constant care and support for the patient. The caregivers of these patients are often family members who bear the heavy responsibility of caring for the patient. The aim of the current study is to explore the educational needs of informal caregivers of older individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.
Methods: The present research is a qualitative study employing content analysis methodology. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 5 relevant specialists, 12 informal caregivers with at least 6 months of experience in caring for an older adult with Alzheimer’s disease, and 5 older adults in the mild stage of Alzheimer’s disease, as confirmed by a physician. The Graneheim and Lundman method was employed to analyze the data.
Results: In this study, 294 primary codes, 19 sub-categories, and 4 main categories were identified. The four main categories included “the need for information and education, the need for home modifications and safety, the need for self-health management, and the need to engage other family members”.
Conclusions: This study indicates that the most important needs of informal caregivers of older adults with Alzheimer’s disease include receiving adequate information, raising awareness, and having quick access to information resources. Addressing these educational needs can improve the quality of life of these older adults and reduce the caregiving burden.
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| Keywords: older adults, caregivers, Alzheimer, educational needs |
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Type of Study: Original research |
Subject:
elderly care
Received: 2025/05/17 | Accepted: 2025/03/30 | Published: 2025/03/30
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