Effectiveness of the “Trabajando Juntos en Colaboración” program to reduce care overload in relatives of Colombian chronic patients

Abstract

Introduction. Caregiver overload among family members of chronically ill patients can have a significant impact on their physical and emotional health, and quality of life as a direct result of being in the caregiving role. It is important to recognize that caring for a chronically ill patient can be challenging, and it is crucial to ensure the wellbeing of caregivers in order to maintain the quality of life of all those involved. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the “Trabajando Juntos en Colaboración” program in reducing caregiver overload among family members of chronically ill patients. Methodology. Quasi-experimental study with immediate preand post-intervention mea-surements of family caregiver overload, assessed using the Zarit Burden Interview. Results. The sample consisted of 19 family caregivers, with a mean age of 67 years, who were dedicated to housework and were spouses of the dependent person. The program interventions led to a statistically significant reduction in perceived caregiver overload (Z = -2.984, p = 0.003) after the intervention. Discussion. The results obtained after the intervention highlight the positive impact in de-creasing family caregiver overload. Expansion of the program and implementation of health44 policies that strengthen support networks for caregivers need to be considered. Conclusions. The “Trabajando Juntos en Colaboración” program succeeded in significantly reducing the overload experienced by caregivers of chronically ill patients.