The effects of the 
program on caregivers
In a study, conducted on 2009-2010, that evaluated the effects of the program on stress management among the caregivers of elderly persons, 26 caregivers aged 43 to 84 years took part in the program. More than half of these caregivers were daughters caring for an elderly parent, and more than a third were living with the parent. The average age of the elderly parents was 84 years, the majority of them were women, and two thirds of them had memory problems.
Following this program, most of the caregivers said that they had learned to better manage the stress associated with their situation as caregivers by using the strategies proposed in the program, i.e. strategies involving reframing (seeing situations differently), problem solving, and seeking support from family members and friends. Following the training, many felt that they had more control over their caregiving situation and had changed their perceptions of it, seeing it more as a challenge to be met (and less stressful) rather than as a threat to their well-being.
Several caregivers also reported that they appreciated the practical and easy-to-apply steps described in the seven-week online program. The assistance of a health professional, provided online, was a key feature of the program. The availability of this health professional, who acted as a tutor, and her support and feedback made it easier for many caregivers to learn how to manage their day-to-day stresses. Some caregivers also appreciated having the opportunity to chat with others on the discussion forum, although many would have liked to have had even more discussions in these forums. The anonymity that was provided to the participants, and the ability to take the training at a time and place of their convenience, were also identified as clear advantages of this online program.
In sum, the vast majority of the caregivers felt that their situation had improved after the program, and that they were better able to manage their stress. The program is intended as a complement to other, more traditional approaches offered to help caregivers, such as support groups.