Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that leads to cognitive decline, memory loss, and behavioral changes in patients. It is the most common form of dementia and has a significant impact on both patients and their families (Alzheimer’s Association, 2023). In Nigeria, including Sokoto State, the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease is increasing as the population ages, and many families are unprepared for the long-term caregiving responsibilities that come with managing Alzheimer’s patients (Suleiman et al., 2023).
Family caregivers are integral to the care of Alzheimer’s patients, as they often provide daily assistance with activities of daily living, manage medications, and offer emotional support. However, caregivers often face physical, emotional, and financial burdens, which can negatively affect caregiving outcomes and the quality of life of both the caregiver and the patient (Omokhodion et al., 2023). Nurses play a crucial role in educating family members about how to manage the challenges associated with Alzheimer’s care. This study aims to examine the effect of family education provided by nurses on caregiving outcomes for Alzheimer’s patients in Sokoto State healthcare facilities.
Alzheimer’s caregivers in Sokoto State often face challenges such as lack of knowledge about the disease, limited emotional support, and inadequate resources for managing patient needs. These challenges can lead to caregiver burnout, poor patient outcomes, and reduced quality of life for both the caregiver and the patient (Umar et al., 2024). Nurses have an essential role in providing family education to alleviate these challenges, yet there is limited research on the effectiveness of family education programs in improving caregiving outcomes in this region.
This study will focus on assessing the effect of family education on caregiving outcomes for Alzheimer’s patients in Sokoto State healthcare facilities. Limitations may include participant biases in reporting caregiving outcomes and the potential lack of long-term follow-up with caregivers post-education.