This study aimed to develop and test the feasibility (effect) of an interactive website (CP Caregiver Assist OAU) on the burden of care among caregivers of children with CP in Nigeria. It also tested the usability of the website among the study population
This mixed-methods study was conducted in two phases: development and feasibility testing. The website developed in accordance with Nigerian Data Protection Regulations, contained educational content, peer support forums and professional advice designed using The Caregiving process and caregiver burden framework. For the feasibility testing phase, 30 purposely selected caregivers used the platform over a four-week period. Quantitative data were collected using the Zarit Burden Interview (Short, 12-items) and the System Usability Scale (SUS) to assess caregiver burden and usability respectively. Paired t-test was used to analyze changes in caregiver burden scores pre- and post-intervention, alpha level was set at p ≤ 0.05. Qualitative data from semi-structured interview questions were analyzed using Atlas.ti software.
At baseline, 16 (53.3%) caregivers reported high burden, 11 (36.7%) reported mild to moderate burden, and three (10%) reported no to mild burden of care. After four weeks of intervention, the burden reduced, with 4 (13.3%) caregivers reporting high burden, 21 (70%) reporting mild to moderate burden, and 5 (16.7%) reporting no to mild burden. A significant reduction in caregiver burden was observed post-intervention (t = 3.632, p = 0.001).
Usability results showed that 23 (76.7%) participants reported good usability of the platform, 16 (53.3%) participants found the platform personally useful, and 29 (96.7%) believed it would benefit other caregivers. Qualitative data highlighted the importance of peer support and access to reliable information for caregivers.
he platform was effective in reducing the physical, emotional and role strain associated with caring for a child with CP. The website's usability was rated highly by the majority of the participants and caregivers gave positive impressions and feelings about the website.
* This study offers an effective approach for integrating digital support tools into caregiver interventions.
* Social media platforms could be a scalable solution to support overburdened caregivers, particularly in low-resource settings like Nigeria.
* The study could inform future interventions in public health and pediatric care.
* There is need for further research on the use of social media education platforms for caregivers
Caregiver
Social media
