Converting Traditional Formal Caregiver Training to Online Training for Informal Caregivers: Evaluating Effectiveness
Abstract: This paper reports a study to evaluate the effectiveness of an online module to train adults in disaster preparedness for senior citizens. FEMA-certified content for formal caregivers was converted and repackaged for informal caregivers, a key group that has taken on more caregiver responsibilities due to both an increase in the senior citizen population and a rise in the number of multigenerational homes. Online training can help distribute vital preparedness information to informal caregivers who lack time for and access to formal training. Participants were adults who had senior citizen family members, lived with seniors, provided care for seniors, or would benefit from the information. The data collected showed a majority of participants (80%) scoring at least 80 percent or higher in the final assessment. The results suggested online training is a viable alternative to delivering disaster preparedness training.