Project FOCUS: Using Videophones to Provide Problem-Solving Training to Family Caregivers of Persons with Spinal Cord Injuries

Family caregivers of persons with physical disabilities experience disproportionately higher levels of distress compared to family members who are not in a caregiving role. Role-related stressors often tax caregivers’ abilities to effectively confront and solve problems and increase caregivers’ risk for anxiety, depression, and compromised physical health. Problem-solving interventions effectively alleviate caregiver distress and help caregivers learn useful coping skills. In this article, we will discuss the use of telecommunication technology in Project FOCUS, an active, home-based intervention designed to teach family caregivers effective problem-solving skills.