Self-directed learning of informal caregivers using mobile health: a systematic review
Abstract Objectives To review published studies on informal caregivers self-directed learning in the context of education through mobile health. Methods A literature search was conducted in September 2024 in the following electronic databases: Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Eric, CINAHL, a...
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| Main Authors: | , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
BMC
2025-07-01
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| Series: | BMC Health Services Research |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-025-13019-7 |
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| Summary: | Abstract Objectives To review published studies on informal caregivers self-directed learning in the context of education through mobile health. Methods A literature search was conducted in September 2024 in the following electronic databases: Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Eric, CINAHL, and Scielo, as well as grey literature databases and manual searches. There were no restrictions on language or year of publication. The selection and extraction of data was done in a paired and independent manner using a personalized form. Methodological quality was assessed using a validated tool for observational studies. The analysis included quantitative and qualitative information without meta-analysis. Results Nine hundred twenty-three reports were identified, including 12 studies with a total sample of 5,087 caregivers. Most studies were conducted in the United States and were of high methodological quality. Most respondents had access to smartphones, ranging from 61% to 99% depending on the country. Being a woman, being married, having higher education, stable employment, and high income were associated with seeking health information online. Most described wanting information about the disease, specific care for the patient, and how to be a caregiver. Internet access and trust in information were identified as the main barriers to self-directed learning. Conclusion Mobile health is a powerful tool for self-directed learning by caregivers. For future studies, it is suggested to investigate the performance of learning acquired through the Internet. |
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| ISSN: | 1472-6963 |