The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a stress management training program offered online to family caregivers of an elderly person with impaired physical or cognitive autonomy. The effects evaluated concerned caregiver quality of life and learning of stress management skills. A total of 26 caregivers took part in the program, comprised of seven online individual sessions along with professional coaching and exchange among participants. The mixed research design used to evaluate the effects showed that caregivers perceived greater self-efficacy in dealing with caregiving demands and perceived their caregiver role to be less threatening and more challenging after completing the program. They also gained self-control over their situation, attained the goal they set at the start of the program, and reported lower health risks.
Qualitative data revealed that caregivers learned the key elements of stress management. Offering support via the Internet is an innovative intervention modality that allows nurses to reach caregivers who cannot or do not want to attend conventional supportive programs. It is recommended to offer this program at the onset of the caregiving trajectory to help caregivers learn, as soon as possible, how to deal with caregiving demands and promote their health.