Information needs of informal caregivers of older adults with chronic health conditions

ObjectiveTo systematically examine current evidence pertaining to information needs of informal caregivers of older adults with chronic health conditions.MethodsStructured search of MEDLINE, MEDLINE IN-PROCESS, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases to identify studies of caregiver information needs, followed by data extraction and syntheses.ResultsThe 62 articles that met the stated inclusion criteria highlighted extensive needs among informal caregivers for practical, accessible, timely information.ConclusionThe identified information needs of informal caregivers can inform organizations and agencies that seek to provide disease and illness-related information.Practice implicationsExisting evidence supports the implementation of a health information delivery system designed to meet the needs of informal caregivers of older adults with chronic health conditions.