Effectiveness of Psychoeducational Programs for Caregivers of Family Members with Chronic Disease: A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of psychoeducational programs in Turkey to reduce the stress of caring for people with chronic illnesses. The psychological, emotional, and physical demands on caregivers, often leading to stress and burnout, underscore the need for such programs. Nine papers were included in a meta-analysis, and statistical analysis was conducted using JASP 0.12.2.0 software. The results showed that psychoeducational therapies significantly reduced caregivers' perceived load, supporting their inclusion in routine treatment for chronic illnesses. The research emphasizes the role of psychoeducational interventions in improving the experience of providing care by providing vital information, coping skills, and emotional support mechanisms. This can lead to better health outcomes and a higher quality of life for those with chronic illnesses. The report also underscores the need for caregiver support policies and programs in healthcare, acknowledging their crucial role in the healthcare ecosystem. Further research is needed to improve the design and content of psychoeducational programs to meet caregivers' diverse needs in various settings. This meta-analysis provides strong evidence of the benefits of psychoeducational programs in reducing stress and laying the groundwork for future studies and policy formulation to support caregiver support in chronic disease treatment.