# Interventions by Rehabilitation Nurse Specialists in the Training of Informal Carers of Older People at Home with Chronic Diseases: A Scoping Review

## TL;DR

This study reviews how rehabilitation nurses help train family caregivers of older adults with chronic diseases at home.

## Contribution

The paper maps interventions by rehabilitation nurse specialists in training informal caregivers, focusing on technical and emotional support strategies.

## Key findings

- Rehabilitation nurse specialists train caregivers in technical skills like positioning and medication administration.
- Educational programs and telehealth are effective in reducing caregiver burden and improving care quality.
- Emotional support and person-centered care are emphasized in these interventions.

## Abstract

Background: The aging population is increasing, leading to a greater need for home care for older adults, often provided by informal caregivers (ICs). These caregivers face numerous challenges, requiring adequate training and support. Objectives: This study aimed to map the main interventions performed by the Rehabilitation Nursing Specialist in empowering ICs of older adults at home. Methods: A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. The search included seven articles published between 2019 and 2024, in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, available in the PubMed e CINHAL Ultimate databases. The descriptors used were (Rehabilitation Nursing) AND (Informal Caregivers OR Caregivers) AND (Elderly OR Aged) AND (mentoring OR Training. Results: The RNS interventions focused on training caregivers in technical skills (e.g., positioning, transfers, hygiene care, feeding, medication administration), preventing caregiver burden, managing behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, promoting self-care, and emotional support. Educational programs and the use of technologies (telehealth) were identified as effective strategies. Conclusions: RNS interventions are crucial for enhancing the skills and well-being of ICs, improving the quality of care provided to older adults at home, and reducing caregiver burden. Person-centered care, continuous support, and recognizing the caregiver’s role are fundamental aspects of these interventions.