Narrative review of literature on Unpaid Carers and the use of mobile text message technology

Williams, Gwynedd ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2688-2115 (2022) Narrative review of literature on Unpaid Carers and the use of mobile text message technology. Journal of Long-term Care, NA. ISSN 2516-9122 (Submitted)

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Abstract / Summary

Context: Carers are more likely than non-carers to report having a long-term condition or disability (Carers UK, 2020). As a result, carers are more likely to experience social isolation, loneliness, and poverty (Tinson et al., 2016). Despite these risks, mechanisms to routinely and regularly access and support carers are lacking.
Objective: To review published studies of adult carers to assess if mobile phone text message technology, can assist with accessing unpaid carers to understand their collective needs.

Method: A scoping review of published literature relating to adult unpaid carers and mobile technology, specifically text messaging.

Findings: The review found some evidence supporting the effectiveness of mobile phone text messaging interventions to specific carer populations. The review has identified a paucity of evidence surrounding the acceptability of mobile text message technology amongst unpaid carers.

Limitations: This review was limited to studies in English, time restraints, and the size of the research team to carry out a full systematic review. The review was undertaken as part of the Connected Health Care project which had already agreed on the parameters for a feasibility study on unpaid carers and the use of mobile phone text messaging.
Implications: Mechanisms to conveniently reach and understand the needs of unpaid carers are required. With the lack of evidence of widespread practical application of mobile phone text message technology particularly for carers, it seems timely to consider the role of technology, specifically, mobile phone messaging.
Keywords: carers, mobile technology, text messaging

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