Implementation and feasibility considerations of an avatar‐based intervention for military family caregivers

Objective Military family caregivers (MFCGs) are a growing population with well‐being and quality of life (QOL) challenges. New technologies can help meet their needs while minimizing disruption to caregiving responsibilities. Preliminary research needs to address intervention implementation challen...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of clinical psychology 2020-06, Vol.76 (6), p.1015-1029
Main Author: Wilcox, Sherrie L.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Caregivers
feasibility
Feasibility studies
high‐risk populations
intervention implementation
quality of life
well‐being
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Summary:Objective Military family caregivers (MFCGs) are a growing population with well‐being and quality of life (QOL) challenges. New technologies can help meet their needs while minimizing disruption to caregiving responsibilities. Preliminary research needs to address intervention implementation challenges before larger‐scale efficacy studies are conducted. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of implementing an avatar‐based intervention and preliminarily investigate outcomes. Methods One‐hundred twenty‐four MFCGs were recruited to participate in this feasibility study. Sixty‐four MFCGs completed the intervention. Data were analyzed using repeated‐measures analysis of variance to assess 3‐ and 6‐month differences. Results Meeting the a priori goal of 50 MFCGs completing the program supported feasibility. Preliminary results indicated significant reductions in depression, anxiety, and somatic symptoms, and significant improvements in physical health and overall QOL. Conclusions Findings support for the feasibility of implementing an avatar‐based intervention for MFCGs and present promising findings related to improving caregiver well‐being and overall QOL.
ISSN:0021-9762
1097-4679
DOI:10.1002/jclp.22881