Number of training sessions does not change program effectiveness

Purpose: Exploratory study that examines outcomes of alternative Alzheimer's Savvy Caregiver Program (SCP) training formats for rural participants. Method: 101 caregivers completed surveys before training in one-, two-, or three-day sessions and at six-month phone interview follow-up. Immediate post-training evaluations were also obtained. Results: Regardless of format, participants viewed training as excellent, used SCP materials at six-month follow-up and increased participation in support groups. Implications: Substantial modification in SCP to meet special needs of rural caregivers appears not to sacrifice desired outcomes.

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