ASPO Abstracts
Acceptability of a Mobile Support Tool for Head and Neck Cancer Caregivers
Category: Survivorship & Health Outcomes/Comparative Effectiveness Research
Conference Year: 2023
Abstract Body:
Purpose: Head and neck cancer (HNC) involves challenging treatments that can lead to swallowing challenges and feeding tube dependence. HNC caregivers encounter distressing nutritional support challenges. This study tested the acceptability of a mobile support tool for HNC caregivers (the Healthy Eating and Recovery Together (HEART) App) and evaluated short-term changes in psychosocial outcomes after use. Methods: We used a single-group mixed methods design (N=23 dyads) with HNC caregivers (78% female, 74% partners) and survivors (70% male, 34% oropharynx cancer). After a dyadic clinic session, caregivers used HEART for 4 weeks. HEART included caregiving and nutritional support, an intake tracker and caregiver toolkit with bi-weekly check-in prompts that triggered resources. Surveys assessed App use, system usability (SUS), ratings and open-ended feedback to evaluate engagement and acceptability; validated instruments assessed outcomes. Results: App use was variable (average logins=20, range 3-76). Participants most commonly accessed the nutritional support (91%) and caregiver toolkit (83%) sections. Caregivers reported high satisfaction (SUS=76/100; range 20-98) with the majority reporting that the App helped them provide care for their loved one (59%), provided practical tips (78%) and supported emotional well-being (48%). Prompt response was higher (70-83% responded) in the first 2 weeks compared to the last 2 weeks (35-61% responded). Satisfaction with nutritional status improved over time in patients (+0.5, p=.07) and caregivers (+0.8, p=.02). Depression decreased in patients (-3.2, p=.03) but was stable in caregivers (-1.5, p=.76). Unmet needs decreased in dyads but not significantly (p>.05). Nurses rated high caregiver engagement (94%) and preparedness (95%) after sessions. Open-ended feedback highlighted several App benefits, including ease of use and provision of tailored resources. Suggestions to improve included addressing technical challenges with prompts and a preference to receive the App earlier in care. Conclusions: A mobile support App for HNC caregivers was rated to be acceptable by HNC caregivers and may be a promising tool to support caregiving. HEART should be investigated further and refined to address technical challenges and timing.
Keywords: head and neck cancer; caregiver; digital health; support