JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Personal support workers (PSWs) are often expected to provide ongoing support for complex conditions and have identified an increased need for training in several areas, including dementia and mental health. Web-based interventions may be helpful complements to traditional in-person continuing education and training, but their effectiveness must be explored further.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate the usability, usefulness, satisfaction with, and effectiveness of the online Dementia Foundations Program among unregulated care providers who provide care to persons living with dementia or are in training.

Methods:

A cohort of 50 PSWs, PSW trainees, and paid care companions from 3 recruitment sites had access to the Dementia Foundations Program, a 4-hour self-paced online program composed of four courses, for up to 6 weeks. Usability, usefulness, and satisfaction were assessed using surveys after each course and post-program. Dementia knowledge and attitudes were measured using the Dementia Knowledge Assessment Scale (DKAS) and the Dementia Attitudes Scale (DAS) at baseline and post-program.

Results:

Participants reported high levels of satisfaction with the program. Of the 50 participants, 92% agreed that the online training met their expectations, 94% agreed that the training covered a broad range of topics and was not missing any important content, and 98% agreed that the online training would benefit them. There was a significant post-program improvement in dementia knowledge as measured by the DKAS, with an average 30% improvement across all cohorts. DAS scores were also significantly improved post-program across all cohorts.

Conclusions:

This pilot study in PSWs, PSW trainees, and unregulated care companions demonstrated high levels of satisfaction with the online Dementia Foundations Program. There were substantial improvements in knowledge and small improvements in attitudes for participants, and it was perceived as a useful tool that complemented their existing education and training. The Dementia Foundations Program is a user-friendly and effective e-learning program, which can be conveniently scaled and spread to enhance unregulated care provider dementia education.