"Caring for Oneself Program": Protocol for a randomized controlled trial of an online positive psychoeducational intervention for informal caregivers of older adults

Informal caregivers of older adults, particularly those in their 30s–50 s, often experience stress and lower level of well-being compared to those in other age groups. Considering their crucial role and the challenges they face, there is an increasing need for targeted interventions to support their well-being. To address this, we developed a novel intervention using an online positive psychoeducational program for these caregivers. This study aimed to develop and evaluate the effect of this program on the subjective well-being and quality of life (QOL) through a randomized controlled trial (RCT) to refine the intervention and research delivery. This program was developed following the Intervention Mapping (IM) framework for intervention development, comprising six stages. The program consisted of eight sessions delivered over two months. The trial is designed as a two-arm RCT with balanced randomization of 350:150, where participants will either participate in the online-based psychoeducational program or receive a leaflet summarizing the program's contents after all surveys are completed, for a 1:1 ratio of participants who complete the program. The primary outcome measure is the subjective well-being of informal caregivers. Secondary outcomes include QOL, authenticity, self-compassion, strength knowledge, strength use, resilience, loneliness, emotional exhaustion and caregiver burden. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an online intervention program and to evaluate mechanisms of change, and contextual factors that could potentially affect its implementation and outcomes. If proven effectiveness, this program can contribute to new methods that enhance subjective well-being of informal caregivers of older adults. UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN000056353); registration date: December 6, 2024.