The Experience of Caregivers of Older Adults With Dementia in Using Telemedicine in a Primary Care Setting of Canada During COVID-19

Abstract

Background

Primary care is essential in dementia management, offering diagnosis, treatment, and support for people living with dementia (PLWD) and their caregivers. Telemedicine became a key advancement during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering crucial access to care. This study explores the pros and cons of telemedicine for dementia care during the pandemic to guide future improvements.

Methods

Data collection involved semi-structured interviews with caregivers recruited from a Montreal memory clinic and secondary analysis of two other studies related to dementia and telemedicine, focusing on the educational needs of patients and the impact of the pandemic on health-care services. Data analysis employed the framework method, combining inductive and deductive approaches to code the data and develop categories aligned with Chang’s framework, providing insights into caregivers’ experiences and the challenges and benefits of telemedicine.

Results

The study involved interviews with four caregivers of people with dementia, complemented by secondary analysis from two Canadian studies. Through framework analysis, four themes were developed: relationship and communication; the advantages and selective suitability of telemedicine (TM) in dementia care; preferences for in-person consultations; and the need to improve awareness and technical confidence in TM.

Conclusion

This study highlights the potential of telemedicine (TM) as an effective modality for dementia care, particularly during situations like the COVID-19 pandemic, but emphasizes that it cannot fully replace in-person consultations due to the enduring preference for face-to-face interactions.