Operation family caregiver: Problem-solving training for military caregivers in a community setting

J Clin Psychol. 2018 Apr;74(4):536-553. doi: 10.1002/jclp.22536. Epub 2017 Nov 15.

Abstract

Objective: This study, conducted over a 2-year period at 9 sites, describes the outcomes of an evidence-based support program, Operation Family Caregiver, to gain an understanding of how a tailored, problem-solving training could assist military caregivers, who provide care and assistance to those injured, ill, or disabled as a result of war.

Method: A pre-post research design was employed to examine caregiver burden, depression, health complaints, satisfaction with life, children's anxiety, and problem solving among a convenience sample of caregivers of 128 military service members and veterans.

Results: Analysis revealed a decrease in depression, burden, and health complaints and an increase in satisfaction of life and positive problem-solving skills (p < .001).

Conclusion: This program may be beneficial to caregiving families of military service and veterans living with posttraumatic stress, traumatic brain injury, and/or a physical disability.

Publication types

  • Multicenter Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brain Injuries, Traumatic / nursing*
  • Caregivers / education
  • Caregivers / psychology*
  • Disabled Persons*
  • Education, Nonprofessional / methods*
  • Family / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Military Personnel*
  • Personal Satisfaction*
  • Problem Solving*
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / nursing*
  • Veterans*