Aims:
We explored the relationship between objective and subjective measures of burden prior to and after a telehealth-based caregiver intervention. One caregiver participated in two studies, one to assess the feasibility of objective, home-based monitoring (EVALUATE-AD), the second to assess the feasibility of a caregiver education telehealth-based intervention, Tele-STAR.
Methods:
Subjective measures of burden and depression in Tele-STAR and objective measures related to daily activities of the caregiver in EVALUATE-AD were compared to examine trends between the different outcome measures.
Results:
While the caregiver reported an increase in distressing behaviors by her partner, burden levels did not significantly change during or after the Tele-STAR intervention, while objective measures of activity and sleep showed a slight decline.
Conclusion:
Unobtrusive home-based monitoring may provide a novel, objective method to assess the effectiveness of caregiver intervention programs.