Scoping Review of Family Interventions That Support the Physical Health of Caregivers

Abstract

Purpose: Family interventions have been developed to support carers of people with mental illness, but not much is known about how such interventions can improve carers’ physical health. This review aimed to identify and analyze existing family interventions that addressed the physical health of carers. Methods: A scoping review was conducted to identify peer-reviewed journal articles on family interventions with physical health components. A total of six articles were found and analyzed thematically to identify the family interventions, physical health components of the interventions, and associated physical health outcomes. Results: Synthesis of the findings from relevant articles showed that the development of physical health components in family interventions is emerging and at an early stage. However, most studies had physical health as a minor area focusing mainly on stress and sleep. Conclusions: Family interventions would be more holistic if consideration of physical health issues was addressed as a core module.