An Online Psychoeducational Pilot Program with Homecare Workers of Dependent Older Adults

Abstract: Homecare workers play an important role in caring for dependent older adults, but no resources are targeted specifically at this population. This study describes the implementation of an online psychoeducational pilot program among homecare workers of older adults receiving dependent care and presents the preliminary results in research settings. The research design was quasiexperimental and consisted of 20 homecare workers completing baseline and postintervention assessments. The intervention consisted of a 6-week online psychoeducational program conducted by a psychologist via videoconferencing. Attendance and dropout rates were recorded, along with the completion of homework assignments, participation in intervention sessions, and the collection of qualitative information about the intervention's acceptability indexes. We discuss the lessons learned from the implementation of the pilot study, followed by the preliminary results regarding its effects on the well-being of care workers (trend toward improvements in burnout, anxiety, and depression). Finally, we propose clinical implications and future directions for online program development.