Qualitative Evaluation of an Online Technology to Support Rural Caregivers of People with Dementia
<b>Background/Objectives</b>: In rural communities, caregivers of people living with dementia face limited access to support services. Digital interventions offer potential solutions for support. This paper reports on the evaluation of Verily Connect, a web-based multicomponent intervention developed to support caregivers. The aim of this qualitative study was to critically evaluate the implementation of Verily Connect to better understand its barriers and enablers. <b>Methods</b>: Using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 24 health service professionals across 12 rural Australian communities. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify barriers and facilitators to implementation. <b>Results</b>: Key barriers included limited digital literacy, resistance to technology and privacy concerns, as well as competing organisational priorities, and inadequate technological infrastructure. Facilitators included organisational alignment and supportive management. <b>Conclusions</b>: The perceived relevance and usability of Verily Connect were enhanced by its co-design with caregivers and integration into health service models. Addressing digital literacy for caregivers, infrastructure limitations, and organisational readiness is essential for future technology-based health interventions in rural dementia care.
Authors
- Irene Blackberry (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4482-4936)
- Tshepo Rasekaba (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8714-0409)
- Clare Wilding (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2467-4264)
- Megan E. O’Connell (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6159-4322)
- Deborah Morgan (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2418-9592)
- Carmela Leone (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8319-8259)
Institutions
- La Trobe University (AU)
- University of Saskatchewan (CA)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Geriatrics
- Published
- 2025-12-05
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics10060161
- Primary Topic
- Dementia and Cognitive Impairment Research
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00
Funders
- Verily Life Sciences